The
Town and Country
Pulpit
Sermon Blueprints for
Forty Special Days
BY BENJAMIN H. CAIN, D. D.
DEDICATION
To my colleagues in town and country
church work:
Cuauncey R. Swartz
FRANK A. SPONG
Howarp R. JAMEs
C. RayMonpD JACKSON
Kerry L. Grirritu
CONTENTS
Page
Preface. . owt ee |
How Big Is Our Church? ewes eae) oe Nae Maes LAL
The Quest for the Best (Youth Sunday) . . . 10
God’s Requirements (Race Relations Sunday) . . 14
Running for Your Life! (Pre-Easter Season) . . 16
Four P’s in a Pod (World Temperance aes. < 19
Like a Tree (Arbor Day) . . . . » «© 23
Lessons from Palm Sunday. . . . . « « 28
Easter in a Garden. . Se oak, Ee
Seed. Growing Secretly [Seantiimay ao Gham ted OU
Basic Rural Values (Rural Life Sunday) . .. . 82
Four Soils (Rural Life Sunday) . . 35
The Home by the Side of the Road (Mother's Day) 38
Getting Down to Earth (Soil Stewardship Sunday) . 41
Family Devotions (Christian Family Sunday) . . 42
Childlikeness (Children’s Day) . . . . . 45
The Rural Home in a Changing World
(Home Dedication) . . . . . . « 48
The Ascension and Exaltation of Jesus
(Ascension Day) . . . s a 2475!
Power to Put It Across (Pentecost Sanday). . . 4
We Need a Memorial Day. . . . . oT
The Head of a Royal Household (Father's Day) . 60
Christian Citizenship (Independence Day). . . 62
Stepping Up Production (Labor Day). . . . 64
We Are All Here (Rally Day). . . . . . &
3
What a Friend We Have in Jesus
(World Communion Sunday) .
Seedtime and Harvest (Harvest Home) . ‘
Life’s Richest Offering (Stewardship Sunday) .
What Is God Doing? (Veterans Day)
Pass the Salt, Please!
(Community Emphasis Sunday)
Cause for Thanksgiving (Thanksgiving Day)
The Saddest Words in the Bible (Advent Season) .
The Bible, the Greatest Book in the World
(Universal Bible Sunday) .
A Small Town Savior (Christmas) .
Why I Believe in the 4-H Club Niowéitest..
The Meaning and Challenge of an Anniversary
(Church Anniversary) .
Benefits of the Lord’s Acre Plan
(Lord’s Acre Sunday) .
Growing Older Gracefully (Senior Citizen’s Bay
A Four-Leaf Clover Bouquet
(Wedding Anniversary Sermon)
A Church for Our Day asia acai
Save Our Sunday i @
101
. 104
. 107
. 110
PREFACE
Several reasons are set forth here for the producing of
this small book at this particular time. First, this task
came as a specific recommendation to me as secretary
of the Department of the Town and Country Church of
the Evangelical United Brethren Church. Special helps
for the observance of rural festivals and special days on
the calendar were desired.
Not a few pastors write me at certain seasons of the
year and state that the “barrel” needs replenishing. To
attempt to help all of these brethren from various church
groups has been a real joy. What I offer here to men such
as these is intended only as a broad resource where
resource for special days in the rural setting is generally
lacking.
A third reason for the production of this book is my
desire to do something that will be of immediate and
practical help to town and country church pastors. Here-
tofore, much of my work and writing has been related
to surveys, conferences, programs, techniques, work-
shops, and convocations. All of these are well and good
in their places. But this is a different sort of thing. En-
riching helps and suggestions for the pulpit ministry in
this book should increase the usefulness of rural pastors
as they preach and encourage them in their great work.
The pastor will find it helpful to follow the calendar
of special days in the church, at least within certain limits
and with appropriate adjustments to meet local needs.
In preparing these sermon outlines with such a calendar
in mind attention has been given in the following areas:
1. The Bible is widely covered.
2. Observances furnishing opportunities for effective
Christian education have been noted.
5
3. A historic sense of religion is cultivated.
4, Personal and social needs are emphasized and
dealt with.
5. Fellowship and worship across church lines are
taken into account and encouraged.
The Scripture passages quoted in this book are almost
entirely from the Revised Standard Version of the Holy
Bible and are used by permission of the copyright
owners. It is expected, of course, that ministers or other
speakers using these outlines will employ various trans-
lations in preparing their messages and in the pulpit will
use the translation they deem most suitable for their
purposes.
—Benjamin H. Cain
Dayton, Ohio
HOW BIG IS OUR CHURCH?
(New Year)
“Then I was given a measuring rod like a staff, and I was
told: ‘Rise and measure the temple of God and the altar
and those who worship there”” —Revelation 11:1
I. Introduction
The Temple had been destroyed by the time our
text was written. The true temple exists in “the
church of the living God.” John was commanded
to measure the temple, altar, and people. How
big is our church? What is the extent of her sac-
rificesP Do her people qualify for worship? These
are appropriate questions for the New Year.
. Does our church have youthful vigor?
(Youth departments, activities, and programs)
A. Courage is characteristic of young people.
Youth have the forward look; they are willing
to venture and to blaze new trails. (Refer to
Charles Lindberg’s first solo flight across the
Atlantic or to our space pioneers of today.)
B. Young people have enthusiasm.
A visit to a high school, a college campus, or to
a training camp gives one the “thrill of youth”;
it does something to you. These young people
have what we call zip, pep, and vigor. Enthu-
siasm is the root of all achievement.
C. Young people have abilities and talents that
need to be harnessed by the church (voices,
energy, dramatic abilities, leadership). Young
people make many contacts: they are constant
“minglers.” J. Gordon Howard coined the phrase,
“Use me or lose me.” Youth say this.
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D. Youth and age are complementary (they need
each other). Timothy needed the maturity, wis-
dom, counsel, and experience of Paul. Paul
needed the courage, forward look, and enthu-
siasm of Timothy. Pastors can keep the church
young through study and youth activities.
Ill. Does our church have missionary interests cand
activities?
A. What is her outreach in the community?
She is the only “good shepherd” the community
has. Does she co-operate with other churches
and community agencies?
B. What is her world outreach?
The Master’s plan is to “Go therefore and make
disciples of all nations” (Matt. 28:19a). Our
church can do no less; she has no other reason
for existence. If she fails to carry out the Great
Commission, she will degenerate into a club.
C. Does she give liberally to missions?
John was asked to “measure the altar” of sac-
rifice. We need missionary workers, stewards,
and intercessors. A steady flow of consecrated
dollars is needed to advance the Kingdom.
D. Does she offer learning opportunities in mis-
sions? Missionaries on furlough, study classes,
institutions, sermons, and literature will help
create a missionary spirit and give valuable in-
formation.
IV. Does our church have evangelistic success?
A. The entire program of our church should be
evangelistic. The primary function of the
church is to “make disciples.” This includes in-
doctrination, enlistment, conservation.
B. Evangelism must be a year-round function.
We will never win the world to Christ through
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“two weeks of revival,” Holy Week services, and
summer camps. These are the harvest seasons;
we must sow the “gospel seed” fifty-two weeks a
year. Someone noted this sign on the Church of
Heavenly Rest in one of our large cities: “Closed
for the summer.”
. We must use a variety of evangelistic methods
to suit all ages. Priority methods used today are
educational, personal, visitation, and mass
evangelism. Paul said, “I have become all things
to all men, that I might by all means save some”
(I Cor. 9:22b).
. Our methods for conserving new converts
should be effective. New converts need the right
atmosphere, food, and work to “grow in grace”
(II Pet. 3:18). Indoctrination linked with tasks
of the church in proportion to age and ability.
. Is our church enjoying consistent growth?
Is growth gradual? Is it steady, not spasmodic? Is
it consistent? The lines of Christian growth include:
A.
Growing in Christlikeness.
The church needs to become more like Christ
in such things as love, sacrifice, prayer, forgive-
ness, purity, race relations, and world peace.
This growth is “an inside job.”
Growing in the conception of her task in the
community. Christianity is the gospel to all men
and the gospel to the whole man. Is our church
convinced of her whole task?
. Growing in willingness to accept her task in
the community. It is possible to see and not to
accept. Illustration: Twelve spies were sent into
the Promised Land; ten of them saw, but would
not accept; two saw and accepted.
D. Growing in community influence and power.
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This comes from an outward expression of her
inward faith. Is it genuine? Growth comes
when the church serves all the people, all the
needs of the people, and acts as the evangelistic
force of the community.
E. Growing in membership.
Is she building up the Body of Christ? expand-
ing like a tree?
Vi. Conclusion
January 1 is the time to get out the yardstick and
measuring rod. We need to measure ourselves and
our church according to God’s standards.
THE QUEST FOR THE BEST
(Yours Sunpay)
“Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a merchant in
search of fine pearls, who, on finding one pearl of great
value, went and sold all that he had and bought it.”
. —Matthew 13:45-46
I. Introduction
There are three classes of people in our society:
A. Drifters. They have no aim in life, no port of
destination; they sing, “I don’t know where I am
going, but I’m on my way.” They are like light
driftwood floating downstream; they do little
harm and no good.
B. Deluded. Many of them are good people who
have the wrong purpose in life. They devote all
their time, energy, and knowledge to the acquir-
ing of material possessions.
C. Seekers. These persons have a definite purpose
in life. They are out to get the biggest and best
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life has to offer—“pearls of great value.” For
these they quest as a hunter does for game.
Il. Imitation pearls
“Beware of imitation.” There is tragedy in missing
the best things of life. Some imitation pearls are:
A.
Dollars.
Big wallets, bank accounts, and many posses-
sions. The objectives are wrong; they miss the
pearls. Illustration: Judas Iscariot.
B. A lofty reputation (fame).
Napoleon sought to write his name high. His
objective was wrong. He was “blowing bubbles
in the air.” He missed the pearls.
. Pleasure (thrills and entertainment for their
sake). “Eat, drink, and be merry.” Mark
‘Anthony built a civilization on sand. In the
night of revelry, he dissolved a pearl worth
$375,000.00 and drank a toast to Cleopatra. His
objective was wrong; he missed the pearls.
. Mere intellectual attainments.
Both pulpit and press have made use of the
story of a certain man who continued his uni-
versity education until he died at the age of
fifty-four. He earned all the degrees offered;
others were manufactured for him. The last
one was D.P.M. (Doctor of Perpetual Motion).
He never associated himself with a world of
need. The world was no better because of him.
His purpose was wrong; he missed the pearls.
The pearls of great value are life’s biggest and best
These lasting treasures are all in the realm of spirit
and character.
A. A good character.
Refer to Joseph, Daniel, Ruth, Esther, David,
and Paul. We know them for what they were
ll
more than for what they did. Character is cap-
ital. It wins the approval of God and man.
B. A Christian education.
Education plus character and spirit—fourfold:
“And Jesus increased in wisdom and in stature,
and in favor with God and man” (Luke 2:52).
Religion is an absolute necessity in building a
life. Ideals, inspiration, and aspiration are of
God. Make his teaching the hub of your life.
C. An enlarged vision of human needs.
See with Christ the oneness of humanity, one-
ness before God, oneness of needs, and oneness
of our task and destiny. Our vision must be
cosmopolitan in nature: “Where there is no
prophecy the people cast off restraint” (Prov.
29:18a).
D. A capacity for hard work.
A college catalogue states, “Go to college; earn
more.” That is not the purpose of a Christian
college. As Christians we go to college so that
we can do more and do our work more effi-
ciently. Only incidentally will the graduate of
a Christian college get more salary.
“Success is 98 per cent perspiration and 2 per
cent inspiration.” Be absorbed in your work;
don’t be a clock watcher.
E. An honorable and useful calling.
“Be somebody.” (Whether as teachers, mission-
aries, scientists, farmers, or merchants, we all
need to strive to serve humanity.) Find your
work in life, and then work your find. Don’t be
a cipher.
IV. How are these pearls to be found?
We must quest for them—“like a merchant man in
search of fine pearls.”
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A. Be an industrious seeker.
Take the tools of education and dig down where
pearls are. “Go to it” with aim and purpose.
“Don't let the grass grow under your feet.” The
industrious person is on the way up.
B. Be a thorough seeker.
Be thorough with the telescope and the micro-
scope. Never be satisfied with half-truths. It is
said that Lyle Rader, the chemist, read the story
of Moses grinding gold to powder, strewing it
upon the waters, the waters turning to blood.
Said Rader, “If that experiment works, I will
become a Christian.” He tried it thirteen times
before the water turned red. He became a
Christian.
C. Be a businesslike seeker.
Robert E. Speer spoke of two men who had
made a wager. At a given time they were to
drive their cars from equally distant opposite
directions to the center of the city. One of them
was to disregard all traffic regulations, and the
other one was to observe all of them. The result
was that the violator was stopped by the police
at the third traffic light. He was not only caught
violating the law but snarled traffic for several
blocks in all four directions. The careful ob-
server drove steadily to the stated destination.
D. Be a timely seeker.
Be up to date. Hitch posts stand while the rest
of the world goes by. A seeker who follows
these four rules will find that for which he seeks.
V. Conclusion
Seek the big things of life. Never fritter away
your time, energy, and life “chasing rainbows.”
Be an unsatisfied person; there are bigger and
better things ahead. Illustration: Thorwaldson,
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the Danish sculptor, when seventy-six years old
was asked, “Which is your masterpiece?” He
replied, “It has not yet been produced.”
GOD’S REQUIREMENTS
(Race RELations SunpAy )
“He has showed you, O man, what is good;
and what does the Lord require of you
but to do justice, and to love kindness,
and to walk humbly with your God?
—Micah 6:8
I. Introduction
The text shows us the simplicity of God’s require-
ments as compared with man’s often elaborate yet
feeble attempts to do God’s will.
Il. The manward look—"do justice”
Our relationships with other people.
A. Justice is a moral attribute of God.
. He has no favorites, pets, or stepchildren.
. The Law taught justice, and the New Testa-
ment has its Golden Rule.
. Preamble of our Constitution: “establish
justice.”
. Flag salute: “One nation under God, with
liberty and justice for all.”
5. We seek “a just and durable peace.”
B. God demands justice in all our relationships.
Far more impressive to God than any prayers
we offer in the sanctuary is the justice we show
to our fellow men in:
1. Social life.
2. Race relations.
3. Economic life.
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re CO Ne
4, Community relations.
5. Concern for underprivileged people.
6. Concern for minority groups.
Ill. The inward look—"Love mercy” (kindness)
A. A God of kindness and mercy (mercy, a moral
attribute of God). Mercy originated with God,
“the Father of mercies” (II Cor. 1:3). His mercy
is shown in:
1. The gift of His son (John 3:16).
2. His patience with our wanderings.
3. His daily provisions for our needs.
No one can be as merciful as God.
B. God is not only a God of mercy, but he loves to
show mercy. “I am the Lord who practices kind-
ness, justice, and righteousness in the earth; for
in these things I delight, says the Lord” (Jer.
9:24). (Recall his many gifts of mercy to us.)
C. Those like Christ are merciful and kind.
They love to show mercy. Illustration: Good
Samaritan, “the one who showed mercy on him”
(Luke 10:37). Jesus said, “Blessed are the
merciful” (Matt. 5:7). Gifts of mercy: The
Heifer Project sent 10,000 cattle to 43 different
countries in 10 years; CROP sent gifts valued at
$32,000,000 in 14 years to needy people in many
countries.
IV. The Godward look—"“Walk humbly with your God”
A. The Christian religion is a personal affair—“your
God.” It is a happy day in our lives when we
can say: “My savior, My Lord.” Unless we have
personal relationship with God, we cannot walk
with him.
B. The Christian life is a walk with God.
A quiet everyday walk in personal fellowship
with God (no fanfare or noise). The Christian
15
is in step with Divinity. He “walks and talks
with the King.”
C. Humility is a trait of those who walk with God.
The only way possible to walk with God. Paul
said: “I am the least”; “I am the chief of
sinners”; “But by the grace of God I am what
I am.”
V. Conclusion
These three things—the manward look, the inward
look, and the godward look—God requires of us all.
RUNNING FOR YOUR LIFE!
(A Pre-Easter Session)
“Do you not know that in a race all the runners compete,
but only one receives the prize? So run that you may
obtain it. Every athlete exercises self-control in all
things. They do it to receive a perishable wreath, but
we an imperishable.” —I Corinthians 9:24-25
“Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud
of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight, and sin
which clings so closely, and let us run with persever-
ance the race that is set before us, looking to Jesus the
pioneer and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that
was set before him endured the cross, despising the
shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of
God.” —Hebrews 12:1-2
I. Introduction
Paul took keen interest in the Grecian games and
races. He saw spiritual values in contests. They re-
quire discipline, alertness, action, endurance, fair
play, co-operation, and skill. As we get ready to
observe Palm Sunday, Maundy Thursday, Good
Friday, and Easter, it is well that we work on
16
making ourselves more worthy of our Lord’s sac-
rifice for us.
. A figure of the Christian life—"race”
It is: -
A. A race to be run.
A life to be lived, a contest not with other
Christians but an hourly struggle to live abun-
dantly. Keeping spiritually fit requires disci-
pline.
. A race set before us.
We choose to enter the contest. Our choice de-
termines our character, career, and destiny.
“, .. choose this day whom you will serve .. .”
(Josh. 24:15).
. A race surrounded by many witnesses.
The benches are full of visible and invisible
spectators who praise, encourage, or criticize
our lives. The invisible ones are those who have
completed the race and want us to win. These
we often forget.
. A race with a definite goal.
In figure, “an imperishable wreath.” The rewards
are for the victor. At sunset of life, “life ever-
lasting.”
How to deal with encumbrances (excess baggage)
“Lay aside every weight, and sin.”
A.
Weights.
Anything that holds us back, impedes progress
in Christian living, such as worry, pleasure, love
of money. The “fat man” is disqualified from a
race. He has too much excess baggage.
. Besetting sins.
Sins that ambush and sidetrack us. With Moses
it was anger, with Peter impetuousness, with
17
Jacob dishonesty, with Saul jealousy. Weights
and sins are to be “laid aside” as one does
a garment.
IV. Rules and regulations of the Christian race
A. Keep your eyes on Jesus Christ.
“Looking to Jesus.” He will give you strength,
guidance, and endurance. Illustration: “Peter’s
experience was that “when he saw the wind, he
was afraid, and began to sink .. .” (Matt.
14:30). Look straight ahead.
B. Exert self-control.
“Exercises self-control.” You are in charge of
yourself, Cut out harmful things; live according
to God’s laws. You do not break them; they
break you.
C. Exercise patience.
“Run with perseverance.” This is an age of
hurry, noise, and nerves. Do not act prematurely
—wait! Illustration: A farmer plows ground,
plants crop, and waits for the harvest. A har-
vest of some sort is inevitable; it will come. It
counts.
D. Develop endurance (second wind).
Sometimes trials are long, drawn out. Time has
a way of solving problems. Need “stick-to-it-
iveness.”
V. The goal or prize
All runners who finish the race in the Christian life
are winners!
A. The honor of the contest.
The best people who have ever lived were in it
for life. The best ones living now are in it. Men-
tion Lincoln’s concern about being “on the
Lord’s side.”
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B. The consciousness of doing good.
You have added to someone’s happiness. En-
couraged, steadied, lifted, and sustained others.
Your unconscious influence has also been help-
ful. You have been someone’s ideal and hero.
C. The approval of God’s favor.
Jesus said of Mary, “She has done what she
could” (Mark 14:82). Commendation at the last
judgment was: “Well done” (Matt. 25:21).
D. Eternal life.
This life is a vestibule to a “beautiful temple,”
a dressing room for “the wedding,” a school of
preparation for “the mansions prepared.”
Heaven is a place where sin, pain, sickness, and
death are absent.
VI. Conclusion
Have you entered the race, or are you just a by-
stander? What are you doing with your excess
baggage? Are you keeping your eyes on Jesus?
Keep the prize—the goal—before you always!
FOUR P’S IN A POD
(Wortp TEMPERANCE SUNDAY)
“But Daniel resolved that he would not defile himself
with the king’s rich food, or with the wine which he
drank; therefore he asked the chief of eunuchs to allow
him not to defile himself.” —Daniel 1:8
“When Daniel knew the document had been signed, he
went to his house where he had windows in his upper
chamber open toward Jerusalem; and he got down on
his knees three times a day and prayed and gave thanks
before his God, as he had done previously.”
—Daniel 6:10
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I. Introduction
Relate the early history of Daniel, facts of his
captivity in Babylon, and his training for service in
the courts of the king, as given in the opening
verses of chapter 1.
. Purpose
“Daniel resolved that he would not defile himself.”
A. Daniel set before himself an object of attain-
ment. His was a settled purpose. It was his de-
liberate choice and will to keep clean. Men
without a purpose are like a traveler without a
destination, a builder without plans, and a
marksman without a mark.
. Every Christian should highly resolve to be:
1. A number-one, full-time, consistent, and re-
liable Christian person.
2. A clean Christian.
3. A person who wastes no time and who wins
souls for the Kingdom. Don’t be a “jack at
all trades and master of none.” Be somebody!
. The church of Christ should live purposefully,
especially in the work of temperance. Clean
Christian living should be the purpose of our
evangelism, Christian education, fellowship,
and missionary endeavors. We should support
the best organized efforts for temperance.
. We should remain loyal to our purposes.
To resolve to be is but half of the purpose.
Carrying out our resolutions is the other half.
Do not swerve in all directions like a car out
of control. Be steadfast.
Purity
“Daniel resolved that he would not defile himself.”
Daniel and the other three Hebrew young people
20
in the king’s court were one of the first temperance
societies.
A. Kings’ courts usually are polluted places. Clean
young men must have purpose, heart, will, and
backbone when surrounded by drunkenness,
vice, temptations, and impurity. In these un-
favorable surroundings, Daniel and his three
companions lived a life of purity and devotion.
. They exercised self-control.
They would not defile their bodies with rich
food, liquor, cigarettes, and so forth. We are in
charge of ourselves. It was Socrates who said,
“Control thyself.” Jesus said, “Deny thyself”; say
no to self.
. They depended upon God’s help and guidance
in everything. Their wills were undergirded
with power divine. Paul said, “I can do all
things in him who strengthens me” (Phil. 4:13).
. Prayer
The incident of the second text (Dan. 6:10) took
place years later. (Tell the story of the official
jealousy that led to the king’s decree.)
A.
Open windows symbolize religious faith.
A busy statesman holds to his childhood beliefs
and those of his homeland. The value of early
teachings.
. Open windows reveal Daniel’s belief in spiritual
fellowship. He prized his religion and kept it up
to date. He kept in touch with headquarters.
There is no substitute for personal fellowship
with God.
. Daniel’s prayer life is characterized by:
1. Humility—“got down on his knees.” A presi-
dent, prophet, statesman, adviser of emperors
on his knees. No wonder he could see so far.
al
2. Regularity—“three times a day.” Such praying
will help in the carrying out of a purpose.
Our praying must be regular and not spas-
modic. Holy habits are our best friends.
3. Consistency—“as he had done previously.” He
did not wait until the crisis came to start
praying, but he stored up a reservoir of
spiritual strength in advance.
V. Power
A. Physical.
Daniel lived during the reigns of five intemper-
ate and ungodly kings. Clean, obedient, and
fearless people often live longer and always
lead richer lives. “Do you not know that you are
God’s temple and that God’s spirit dwells in
you?” (I Cor. 3:16).
B. Governmental.
At this time, Babylon was the most powerful
nation on earth. Daniel did the thinking and
planning for three great emperors. As adviser,
he possessed “the spirit of wisdom.”
C. Spiritual.
God spoke to Daniel through dreams. That was
his method of communication in that day.
Daniel had the special gift of interpreting
dreams of others, especially those who were in
high governmental positions. The most famous
illustration of his spiritual power is his mirac-
ulous preservation in the lions’ den.
D. Exemplary
Young people of every age since Daniel have
looked at him as a clean example of what youth
may be by the help of Christian faith and prac-
tice. Hymns have been written and sung in
keeping with his pure and beautiful life.
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VI. Conclusion
The secret of a great life is purpose, purity, prayer,
and power. Thank God for the Christian example
and useful life of Daniel in a pagan country.
LIKE A TREE
(Arsor Day)
“He is like a tree
planted by streams of water,
that yields its fruit in its season,
and its leaf does not wither.
In all that he does, he prospers.”
—Psalm 1:3
. Introduction
The Bible and trees:
A row of trees from Eden to Paradise. Forty-two
different species mentioned in forty books of
the Bible. Trees are a symbol of the Christian
life.
Like a tree the Christian is:
A. Firmly planted.
He is not so by chance or nature; God does the
planting.
B. Deeply rooted—“by the streams of water.”
He has found the source of strength in the
depths of God’s grace. Surface Christians are
easily uprooted. Illustration: California’s big
trees are deeply rooted. They grow tall.
Like a tree the Christian’s influence is like sheltering
and comforting shade
Influence in Bible symbolized by shadows or shade.
A. All of us have a shadow (differs from shade only
23
in outline). Our influence is taking others up
or down. Healing shadows: Acts 5:15.
B. We seek protection and help from great charac-
ters in:
1. Times of affliction and loss.
2. Financial difficulties.
3. Family problems.
4. Spiritual needs.
Isaiah 32 (2) Each will be like a hiding-
place from the wind,
a covert from the tempest,
like streams of water in a dry place,
like the shade of a great rock in a weary
land.
IV. Like a tree the Christian branches out with an
expanding life
A. He is community minded.
He is deeply concerned about the welfare of all:
. Families of community.
. Public schools.
. Community business.
Health of community.
. Fellowship and recreation.
. Conserving of natural resources.
. God’s kingdom here and now.
B. He has a world vision (missionary minded).
The Master's plan: “Go therefore and make
disciples of all nations.” He can do no less. His
church has no other reason for existence.
ND UR wpe
V. Like a tree the Christian bears fruits
A. Christian usefulness.
George Washington Carver found 107 products
could be made from the sweet potato. Jesus
“went about doing good” (Acts 10:38). We can
be useful in the home, community, sickroom,
24
business, and church life. God is interested in
“fruit.”
. God wants us all to be useful.
The pruning process of John 15:2: “. . . every
branch that does bear fruit he prunes, that it
may bear more fruit.”
Vi. Conclusion
The sharp contrast: “The wicked are not so, but are
like chaff which the wind drives away” (Psalm
1:4).
LESSONS FROM PALM SUNDAY
“And the crowds that went before him and that followed
him shouted, ‘Hosanna to the Son of David! Blessed be
he who comes in the name of the Lord! Hosanna in the
highest? ” —Matthew 21:9
I. Introduction
Jesus makes his first claim to royalty. How different
were the outward expressions of that claim—no
soldiers, police, banners, brass bands, cheer leaders,
loud speakers, or blazing headlines. Why? ““‘My
kingship is not of this world, ” (John 18:36a). This
historical pageant teaches us four lessons.
B.
C.
. Obedience
A.
Orders from the Master.
“Go into the village,” etc.
The prompt obedience of the disciples.
“They went.”
Stewardship of Palm Sunday.
Supplies and equipment for it were provided by
others.
25
Ill. Enthusiasm
A. The two singing crowds—“that went before and
followed.” They were not ashamed of their king.
Singing is the handmaiden of the gospel.
B. Fickle and shallow enthusiasm should be dis-
couraged. It is like a skyrocket that burns out
rapidly.
C. Enthusiasm that arises out of deep convictions,
loyalty, and devotion should always be en-
couraged.
IV. Testimony
A. The great procession stirred the city.
The Pharisees asked, “Who is this?” The crowds
answered, “This is Jesus, the prophet of Naza-
reth.” It took a lot of courage to say that one
week before Easter.
B. We are debtors to Christ for his sacrifice for us.
We owe it to him to show our colors, take our
stand, and raise our flag. “Drops of grief can
ne'er repay,” etc. Have we lost the art of testi-
mony?
V. Service
As a token of respect to royalty:
A. The disciples, with garments and branches,
made a carpet for Christ to ride in triumph. He
needs our gifts.
B. Their services were costly.
Today it is serve “us.” There is nothing too
costly for Jesus. Example: the “alabaster box” of
Mary (John 12:1-8). We must bring to Him our
lives, talents, and possessions. The church
moves forward on our sacrifices.
26
Vi. Conclusion
There is another Palm Sunday coming (Rev.
7:9-10) —“Palms of victory.”
EASTER IN A GARDEN
“Now in the place where he was crucified there was a
garden, and in the garden a new tomb where no one
had ever been laid . . . they laid Jesus there.”
—John 19:41-42
I. Introduction
This particular garden is closely associated with
history’s most important fact. Following the death
of Jesus Christ on Good Friday afternoon, two
wealthy and influential men begged his body from
Pilate and buried it in a garden tomb near by.
Nicodemus made his contribution to the burial,
“a hundred pounds of aloes.” Joseph of Arimathea
contributed “his own tomb hewn out of rock.” The
kindly arms of nature graciously received and held
Christ’s mangled body until resurrection morn
three days later.
. An unused tomb in a garden
“A new tomb where no one had ever yet been laid.”
A. The Bible says a lot about gardens.
It opens with the garden scene in Eden and
closes with “the paradise of God” in the book
of Revelation. God loves the beautiful, the
growing, fragrant, and productive works of his
creation.
B. In Jesus’ day, gardens (orchards) were meeting
places for social, business, and religious festivi-
ties. Gardens were also used for burying
grounds. Abraham buried Sarah in the Garden
27
of Macpelah. The Old Testament had its famous
“Garden of Kings” which corresponds to our
Arlington. Jesus was buried in a garden.
C. The unused tomb was Joseph’s own.
Joseph loaned his own tomb for Jesus’ body. For
this he will always be remembered with great
appreciation. All of life is like a garden—child-
hood, youth, and maturity. In our pursuits, joys,
and pleasures, “a tomb is nigh at hand” for each
one of us.
The tomb is harmless (conquered)
Jesus took out of the tomb the gloom, despair,
horror, and fear we associate with it and made it
radiant and fragrant.
A. He overcame sin by his atonement.
Sin is strong, but Christ is stronger. “Where sin
increased, grace abounded all the more” (Rom.
5:20). “For as in Adam all die, so also in Christ
shall all be made alive” (I Cor. 15:22). “..
Who abolished death and brought life and im-
mortality to light...” (II Tim. 1:10).
B. Jesus Christ arose from the tomb.
The Roman soldiers, guards, seals, and huge
stone were all helpless in attempting to prevent
his resurrection. “But God raised him up” (Acts
2:24a). He had taught, “I lay down my life, that
I may take it again” (John 10:17b). “I died, and
behold I am alive for evermore” (Rev. 1:18b).
C. He guaranteed our immortality.
This guarantee is written out for us in John
14:19b, “Because I live, you will live also.” “In
my Father’s house are many rooms; .. . I go and
prepare a place for you” (John 14:2-3a). The
tomb has been conquered. It is harmless.
28
IV. Practical lessons from Easter
(Live in the garden and not in the tomb.) The
Bible does not make death prominent. We do not
know where Peter, Paul, Mary, John, James, and
many other leading characters of the Bible died.
The Bible is more interested in life, redemption,
eternity, and service here and now. Then let us live:
A.
In the garden of love.
Love God, Jesus Christ, the Bible, the church,
our brethren of all races, the unsaved, and the
unlovely of our day. Love is the cement that
binds the church together. No weeds of hate
and jealousy ever grow in this garden. Read
again I Corinthians 13.
. In the garden of faith.
Faith is a living and growing thing. It increases
by experience. In the New Testament, faith is
personal, saving, suffering, and victorious. See
Hebrews 11. So we sing “My Faith Looks Up
to Thee.”
. In the garden of hope.
We have “hope boxes” in this life and for
eternity. The influence of hope is “a sure and
steadfast anchor of the soul” (Heb. 6:19a). This
hope is based on the Word of God and the
atonement of Christ.
. In the garden of prayer.
In the Garden of Gethsemane Jesus found
strength for a great decision and burden. It was
there that he gained the victory to go on to
Calvary. Hymn: “There’s a Garden Where Jesus
Is Waiting.”
. In the garden of service.
Our task is to transform the world into “the
garden of God.” It is to make it to “rejoice and
29
blossom” (Isa. 35:1). The judgment scene in
Matthew 25:31-46 is based on service rendered.
V. Conclusion
The tomb has been conquered for us; it is harmless.
We say with Paul, “But thanks be to God, who
gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ”
(I Cor. 15:57). The garden of life should concern
us most—live and serve Him.
With the kiss of the sun for pardon,
And the song of the birds for mirth
We are nearer God’s heart in a garden,
Than anywhere else on earth.
—Author unknown
SEED GROWING SECRETLY
(SEEDTIME )
“And he said, ‘The kingdom of God is as if a man should
scatter seed upon the ground, and should sleep and rise
night and day, and the seed should sprout and grow,
he knows not how. The earth produces of itself, first the
blade, then the ear, then the full grain in the ear. But
- when the grain is ripe, at once he puts in the sickle,
because the harvest has come.” —Mark 4:26-29
“The seed is the word of God.” —Luke 8:11
I. Introduction
This brief parable is overshadowed by the greatest
of all parables—the parable of the Soils. It is un-
explained and has many different interpretations.
It teaches co-operation with God in the spiritual
world as in the natural world. We shall consider
the seed, the growth, and the harvest.
30
The seed (God’s Word)
A. All seed is from God (Gen. 1:11).
(It is valuable as a germ of life.)
B. In order to produce, seed must be sown—placed
in the earth. Preaching the Word is the will of
God. All men need it. Many channels of sowing.
C. Sowing seed requires:
]. Faith in seed, soil, weather, and God.
2. Patient toil.
3. Cultivation of plants.
Growth—“should sprout and grow”
A. Growth is normal. It begins with germination
(conversion ).
B. Growth is mysterious. “He knoweth not how.”
C. Growth is gradual.
There are progressive steps—“blade, ear, full
corn.” We do not become mature Christians
overnight.
D. Growth is silent.
Invisible processes are at work. God is at work—
“night and day.” Noise is not growth.
. The harvest—"When the harvest is come”
A. Seed is productive.
The reason for sowing is the harvest. (Illustrate
with wheat and corn.)
B. The harvest is inevitable.
It is certain to come. It is the harvest that
counts. We obey the laws of God and wait on
the harvest. Fruits “clubbed” from the tree will
not last.
C. God’s work is complete when we reap.
“When the harvest is come, he [farmer] putteth
in the sickle.” Grain is a precious thing and must
31
be garnered into the bins. Souls are precious
and must be garnered into the church.
D. The harvest of the Kingdom is now.
“The harvest is now, not four months hence’
(John 4:35). Keep machinery of church in good
repair, well oiled, up to date, and functioning
smoothly.
>
V. Conclusion
As a church, we are a part of this growing King-
dom. Its victories, joys, and glories are ours. Be
loyal to the chief factor in Kingdom growth—the
church.
BASIC RURAL VALUES
(Rurau Lire Sunpay)
“The lines have fallen for me in pleasant places;
yea, I have a goodly heritage.”
—Psalm 16:6
Introduction
Values originate in the country. They are often ex-
ploited in the cities. Some of them need to be
rescued and preserved for society. A significant
inscription appears on the Union Depot in Wash-
ington, D.C. It reads: “The farm—best home of the
family—the main source of national wealth—the
foundation of civilized society—the natural Provi-
dence.” Six rural values are considered.
. Creative work
A. Creative work is an American heritage.
Forefathers and pilgrim fathers used minds,
hands, and hearts to produce commodities and
a way of life. This human machine was made
32
IV.
for work. Work develops personality, keeps one
happy, and produces for human consumption.
. Children are an asset on the farm.
Twelve-year-olds drive tractors and help with
chores. There is always something for children
to do on the farm. Not so in the city.
. Habits of industry are important in life.
The lazy person is useless; he is a misfit in God's
great and good universe. Lazy oxen and horses
do have some value.
Co-operation
A. Co-operation is a principle of the universe.
There is harmony in the solar system. Eclipses
on sun and moon are determined years ahead.
It is the mission of rural people to work with
God in the feeding and clothing of all peoples
in the world.
. The farm home and community are educators
of co-operation. In the home everyone has a job
to do. Chores are assigned to each one. Farmers
work with each other in fields. They learn to
live and work together in peace and harmony.
. The rural church should be an example and
champion of co-operation.
1. In its own ranks.
2. With other Christian groups.
3. With independent farm organizations.
4, With civic and educational groups.
5. In fellowship and recreation.
Thrift
A. The Bible teaches diligence and thrift.
“Six days you shall labor, and do all your work”
(Exodus 20:9). “But Jesus answered them, ‘My
Father is working still, and I am working’”
(John 5:17). “If any one does not provide for
33
his relatives, and especially for his own family,
he has disowned the faith and is worse than an
unbeliever” (I Tim. 5:8).
B. Meager income of most farm boys makes thrift
and economy a necessity.
C. A biblical example of genuine thrift is found in
the career of Joseph, who became “Secretary of
Agriculture” in Egypt. He knew how to plan
wisely, manage resources, and organize and
carry out plans.
V. Self-reliance
A. The farmer must think and act for himself.
He must make decisions that are far-reaching
each day; he must rely on his best judgment.
B. Difficult situations often call for immediate de-
cisions. Past experiences and good judgment
help the farmer to be self-reliant.
VI. Respect for authority
A. Rural people as a class are law-abiding citizens.
They “growl” a lot about certain laws, but abide
by them until change comes. Most lawbreakers
are found in the crowded cities. Rural parents
teach their children respect for law and prop-
erty, for the aged, and for father and mother.
B. The home, church, school, and state are all con-
cerned in developing the character traits in our
citizens. They are essential to our democracy.
Vil. Reverence for God
A. Their contact with creative forces links rural
folks with the “Holy Earth.” They are closely
associated with the miraculous and the super-
natural. These contacts encourage reverence for
God.
B. Working with these processes inspires more
34
reverence than working with machines. The
farmer is a partner with God in the creation and
distribution of food, fiber, and clothing to
supply world needs.
. Nature magnifies God.
Man-made machines magnify their creators or
designers. The lofty mountains, canyons, water-
falls, streams, and starry heavens inspire
reverence for the Creator. The rural home is
the balance wheel of the nation.
Vill. Conclusion
Work, co-operation, thrift, self-reliance, respect,
and reverence—these values can best be conserved
by working them into the programs of our lives,
homes, community, and church.
FOUR SOILS
(Rourat Lire Sunpay)
“But those that were sown upon good soil are the ones
who hear the word and accept it and bear fruit, thirty-
fold and sixtyfold and a hundredfold.”, —Mark 4:20
I. Introduction
Setting of the parable (seaside). The disciples
question, “Why did you shift to parables?” Our
attention will be o nthe soils, representing four
kinds of hearts among those who hear the gospel
message.
. Wayside soil (hardened heart)
A. No response to message.
Ground fertile but unprepared. No germination
of seed. Hearer “stone deaf.”
35
B. If soil does not receive the seed, birds do.
“Birds of the air devour it.” The devil has many
agents that swoop down on the gospel seed—
morning paper, business, golf, trips.
C. We go to church to strengthen the inner voice.
We go to prevent “hardening of the heart.” It is
possible to become “gospel hardened.”
Hardened soil can be plowed.
Shallow soil (emotions only)—“rocky ground”
A. Response but no growth.
“Received the word with gladness.” No root in
themselves. Surface Christians, shallow living,
easily uprooted. Reaching the emotions only is
not enough.
B. Testing times come.
“When tribulation and persecution arise on
account of the word.” Christianity is more than
“gladness”; it is a cross to be borne. The new
plants die: “immediately they fall away.”
C. We go to church to give stability to our faith.
We must go down through the rocks to the un-
failing springs of God’s grace. Illustration: the
Empire State Building in New York is 110 stories
high; the foundation is 10 stories in the ground,
~ Thorn-choked soil (worldly living)}—“sown among
thorns”
A. There was response and growth but no fruit.
We cannot grow a harvest of thorns and wheat
in the same field. Christ and the world cannot
live in the same heart: “No one can serve two
masters” (Matt. 6:24a).
B. Three thorns mentioned (cares, riches, pleasure)
1. Cares. Worries—domestic, social, business,
political.
36
2. Riches. Riches are deceitful. Business gets
too big for the Christian life, so the man
drops out of church affairs. Emerson said:
“The worst thing about money is that it costs
so much.”
3. Pleasure. Vacations, hobbies, and other
leisure interests are right when they fit us
for better services. They are wrong when
they lessen our usefulness.
C. We go to church to help build a supreme loy-
alty to God. We must clean out the thorns so
that the wheat can grow.
V. The fruitful hearer
A. Response to the Word—“hear, accept, bear
fruit.” There was germination, growth, and
fruit. They prayed during the sermon: “Lord,
help me to get this message.”
B. They accepted what they heard.
Did not memorize it or write it down. They
obeyed and practiced the word. Live up to best
light we have and more will come. If we fail to
practice what we hear, we will fail to believe.
C. They were fruitful Christians.
It takes faith and patience to raise a crop. The
order is: hear, obey, bear fruit; the results,
“thirtyfold, sixtyfold, a hundredfold.”
D. We go to church to multiply our chances for
doing good. The thirty- and sixtyfold may in-
crease to one hundredfold.
VI. Conclusion
Why go to church according to this or
A. To strengthen the inner life.
B. To give stability to our faith.
C. To clean the thorns out of our lives.
D. To multiply chances for doing good.
37
THE HOME BY THE SIDE OF THE ROAD
(Moruer’s Day)
“One day Elisha went to Shunem, where a wealthy
woman lived, who urged him to eat some food. So
whenever he passed that way, he would turn in there
to eat food. And she said to her husband, “Behold now,
I perceive that this is a holy man of God, who is con-
tinually passing our way. Let us make a small roof
chamber with walls, and put there for him a bed, a
table, a chair, and a lamp, so that whenever he comes
to us, he can go in there.” —II Kings 4:8-10
|. Introduction
Tell the story of Elisha’s itinerary from Mount Car-
mel to Jerusalem and the addition to the home in
Shunem for the prophet’s convenience. This is the
first biblical idea of a parsonage. It was the people
within who made this wonderful home. The bul-
warks of this ideal home were godliness, hospitality,
contentment, and faith.
. Godliness
A.
This was a Christian home.
Money will buy a house, but not a home. Some-
one has defined home as “where the great are
small and the small are great.” In such a home
we find the Bible, Christian pictures on the
walls, acts of worship, love, harmony, and
good will.
. Godless mothers and fathers have besmirched
the pages of history. The kings and queens of
Israel and Judah are fitting examples of such
living. Jezebel was a most wicked woman. In-
cluded in this list are Herod the Great, Cleo-
patra, and many others who have written un-
erasable records.
38
C. Godly mothers and fathers have illumined the
pages of history. Hannah, the mother of Samuel,
Jocabed, the mother of Moses, Lois and Eunice
of Timothy’s family, Mary and Joseph, Susanna
Wesley, Nancy Hanks, and many unknown
parents are great luminaries on the pages of
history.
D. The greatest need of our nation is for Christian
homes. Christ wants to come into our homes:
“Behold, I stand at the door and knock; if any
one hears my voice and opens the door, I will
come in to him and eat with him, and he with
me” (Rev. 3:20).
Ill. Hospitality
A. The woman of Shunem was a good homemaker.
It is not the products of great factories but of
the home plant that make strong national life.
Many modern girls with every appliance are
poor homemakers. Girls should be prepared and
trained for motherhood.
B. Hospitality of this home was shared with a visi-
tor, a prophet and a man of God. The family
built an addition to their home for Elisha and
Gehazi. They shared their wealth for a noble
cause. Too much of modern entertainment is
left to commercial institutions.
C. Mothers have broad interests.
The WCTU, women’s societies at church,
sewing circles, auxiliaries, clubs, and other or-
ganizations give us some idea of the outreach of
the services of Christian women.
IV. Contentment
A. Elisha had influence with the king.
He wanted to reward the woman of Shunem
and her husband for their hospitality by getting
39
them a position with the king or a prominent
place in the army: “Would you have a word
spoken on your behalf to the king or the com-
mander of the army?” (II Kings 4:13a).
B. The woman’s response to the offer was:
“I dwell among my own people” (II Kings
4:13b). They were content with home; friends
and neighbors and were happy together. They
were not interested in honor and favors.
C. Many people seek recognition.
They want places of prominence, honor, and
power. Some sacrifice home, domestic peace,
friends, conscience, and God, for honor promi-
nence, and money. Christ’s answer to such am-
bitions is, “He who is greatest among you shall
be your servant; whoever exalts himself will be
humbled, and whoever humbles himself will be
exalted” (Matt. 23:11-12).
V. Faith (If Kings 4:17)
A. She was blessed with a son in her old age.
Her good husband was unstinted in love and
sacrificial service. The climax of the whole story
centers about their child.
B. Godly parents are not exempted from bereave-
ment and loss. Their son died at the age of six.
The parents used common sense in the crisis;
they sent for Elisha, the holy man of God.
C. They betook themselves to God.
Theirs was a common experience of parents—
sunshine and gladness, sadness and loss, joys,
deep concerns, and peace. Their son was re-
stored to life through Elisha.
40
VI. Conclusion
Godliness, hospitality, contentment, and faith are
the bulwarks that will make modern homes useful
and strong.
GETTING DOWN TO EARTH
(Som STEwarpsuip SuNDAY)
“The Lord God took the man and put him in the garden
of Eden to till it and keep it.” —Genesis 2:15
I. Introduction
God is owner of the good earth. Man is a steward.
Stewardship must be acknowledged.
. The unchristian use of the good earth
We waste it through:
A. Erosion (depletion )
1. Erosion depletes people and communities.
2. Erosion affects urban people (they need
milk, butter, meat, eggs).
B. Unchristian distribution of the good earth’s
products. We have room and food enough for
300,000,000 people in the United States.
C. Perversion of the good earth’s products into in-
struments of destruction (intoxicating liquors,
etc.).
The Christian use of the good earth
We must:
A. Acknowledge God’s ownership of the soil.
“The earth is the Lord’s” (Ps. 24:1).
B. Practice Christian stewardship of natural re-
sources. Rebuild and conserve soils; care for
minerals, forests, wild life, and streams.
41
C. Enter into partnership with God in the creation
and distribution of food, fiber, and clothing.
God and the farmer feed and clothe the world.
D. Share the fruits of the good earth with the
needy, distressed, and hungry of our world.
Through our gifts they will accept Christ as
Savior and Lord.
E. Recapture the honor and dignity of farming as
a calling. The farmer has a mission.
. Conclusion
Secularism crowds God out of all of life. Chris-
tianity packs God into all phases of life. Be a good
steward of the good earth.
FAMILY DEVOTIONS
(Cristian Famiry Sunpay)
“Behold, I and the children whom the Lord has given
me are signs and portents in Israel from the Lord of
hosts, who dwells on Mount Zion.” —Isaiah 8:18
“Lo, sons are a heritage from the Lord.”
—Psalm 127:3a
Introduction
A Mother’s Day tragedy—Anna Jarvis, who founded
Mother’s Day in 1902, died as a recluse in 1957 at
the age of eighty-four. She grew bitter because of
the commercialism of Mother’s Day, a development
which she had hoped would never occur.
. A mother’s pride
The prophet is speaking through his wife: “Behold”
—a loving, reverential exclamation of a grateful
42
soul, a cry of deep admiration; “Behold . . . the chil-
dren whom the Lord has given me.”
A. A child is a beautiful thing.
Hannah lifted Samuel up and said, “For this
child I prayed” (I Sam. 1:27a); then follow ten
verses of thanksgiving (see I Samuel 2:1-10).
Mary, with the Christ child in her arms, sings,
“My soul magnifies the Lord” (Luke 1:46).
Simeon in the Temple takes the child Jesus in
his arms and says, “Lord, now lettest thou thy
servant depart in peace” (Luke 2:29a).
B. Motherhood is a mission.
Many women do not want children (unnatural).
Some who cannot be mothers adopt children so
that their mother love may have an outlet. To be
childless was a disgrace to Jewish women. The
text expresses the joy of the prophet and Mrs.
Isaiah over two sons.
‘Children are a gift from God
“The children whom the Lord has given me.”
A. Children, as a gift from God, still are his. We
should dedicate them to God.
B. Children are a solemn trust from God.
We must care for God’s property. Children are
more valuable than cars, clubs, theaters, bridge
parties, and fishing trips. Parents should be in-
terested in their child’s:
1. Health.
2. Schooling.
3. Social life.
4, Play. -
5. Guidance of soul.
6. Future.
Many parents are delinquent in their responsi-
bilities.
43
IV. Right relationships
Parents and children belong together: “I and the
children.” They belong together:
A. In the home.
Togetherness is. the only way to make a home.
The family tied together with love, companion-
ship, prayer, and worship is God’s ideal.
B. In Sunday school.
Parents, take your children to Sunday school.
(Sending them alone is shirking responsibility. )
Fortunate is the church that serves her children
with qualified and devoted teachers, adequate
buildings and equipment, lots of room for play,
work, and worship.
C. In church.
The Sunday school of today is the church of
tomorrow. Today, only one third of the Sunday
school attend church services. Families should
sit together in church services. In the family
circle at home, talk about the good things of
the church. (Some families have “roast pastor”
for dinner! )
D. At the Lord’s table.
Christ died for every family as well as for me.
It is a beautiful sight when parents and children
take communion together.
E. In heaven.
We are together on earth so why not in heaven?
United here and united there. Many funeral
prayers plea for “an unbroken family in heaven.”
V. Children are the hope of the future
“Children . . . signs and portents in Israel.”
A. We live both for today and for tomorrow.
We should strive to make it easier for the next
44
generation by saving this one. Six million chil-
dren started to school for the first time last
autumn. (They are our challenge.)
B. We can build our influence into the future.
Jesus and Paul did. Neither one had any of this
world’s goods. So did Robert Raikes, the foun-
der of the Sunday school movement, Francis
Clark of the Christian Endeavor, David Living-
stone of England, and Fanny J. Crosby.
C. Children are good omens for a better future.
Isaiah and his wife saw a better day for children
and, through them, a better future for the
nation.
VI. Conclusion
The big trees of California grow in families. “Fam-
ilies that pray and worship together stay together.”
CHILDLIKENESS
(Cumpren’s Day)
“,.. ‘Truly, I say to you, unless you turn and become like
children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven.
Whoever humbles himself like this child, he is the
greatest in the kingdom of heaven.”
—Matthew 18:3-4
I. Introduction
The question of rank: “Who is the greatest?” The
disciples were concerned about position, rank, and
honor in the coming Kingdom. Jesus teaches by an
object lesson: “And calling to him a child, he put
him in the midst of them.” The center of interest
is on children. His sermon to the adult disciples
was, “Truly . . . unless you turn and become like
children.”
45
il. The need of becoming childlike (conversion)
A. It is universal.
2
“Unless you turn.” “Unless one is born anew”
(John 3:3b). There is only one way of getting
into the kingdom of God: One must go in
“heart first.” By nature we are “outsiders.”
B. A Christian experience is the only thing that sat-
isfies God—and us. The New Testament de-
mands it. The moral man may do many good
things and be a good person, but he is without
a knowledge of sins forgiven and a new life in
Christ.
lll. The work of conversion
A. It is a spiritual change of heart and life.
“Therefore, if any one is in Christ, he is a new
creation ...” (II Cor. 5:17a).
B. It involves an act by man and an act by God:
1. Repentance—a turning from a life of sin to
God. It involves confession. It brings about
a new mind toward God.
2. Regeneration—a new heart from God by the
power of the Holy Spirit. For the person, it
is a new birth: “Born anew.” This we call
conversion.
IV. The fruits of conversion
“Become like children.”
A. Humility.
Humility is the key to the Kingdom. The dis-
ciples had to reverse their desire for rank to
humility. Children do not have pride or worldly
ambitions. It is the grownups who argue about
being great. A Christian principle is: “Whoever
exalts himself shall be humbled, and whoever
humbles himself shall be exalted” (Matt. 23:12).
46
B. Faith.
Children naturally believe. We learn to become
skeptics and unbelievers. Faith is necessary to
live right. “And without faith it is impossible to
please him” (Heb. 11:6). Faith may be in-
creased through experience. The disciples
prayed, “Lord, increase our faith.”
C. Forgiveness.
Children forgive and forget. Even if they quar-
rel several times a day, they make up in five
minutes. The Lord’s prayer says, “Forgive us
our debts as we forgive our debtors.” Jesus
taught that we should never try to get even with
those who have wronged us. Booker T. Wash-
ington said, “My soul is too big and too glad to
be at heart the enemy of any man.” An unforgiv-
ing person cannot live in fellowship with a for-
giving God.
D. Simplicity.
Children do not use big words. Words are not
a sign that one knows a lot anyway. The great
things of life are simple: God, mother, father,
love, home, heaven, do, give, be. All of these
things children may understand. Jesus talked
about a coin, lost boy, lost sheep, seeds, flowers,
birds, and trees.
E. Play.
Children play. They are not often still one min-
ute. It is said they have ninety-eight muscles
with which to wiggle and only two with which
to keep still. All ages of people should play. It
keeps them from getting grouchy, sour, pessi-
mistic, old, and grumpy. We must keep our
spirits alive. There is such a thing as growing
older gracefully. Jesus was no recluse. Children
followed him everywhere.
47
F. Solidarity of the race.
Race discrimination is taught children by ex-
ample and precept. They play together without
discrimination. We seek to consolidate our in-
terests and responsibilities. The one sheep lost
to the one hundred in the parable (Luke
15:3-7) may have been a black sheep. God looks
on the heart, not on the color of skin.
V. Conclusion
Let us be alert to learn the lessons children teach:
humility, faith, forgiveness, simplicity, play, soli-
darity. (Repeat the text.)
THE RURAL HOME
IN A CHANGING WORLD
(Home Denication)
“And Samuel said to Jesse, ‘Are all your sons here?’ And
he said, ‘There remains yet the youngest, but behold, he
is keeping the sheep. And Samuel said to Jesse, ‘Send
and fetch him; for we will not sit down till he comes
here.
—I Samuel 16:11
I. Introduction
The prophet Samuel is looking among the seven
sons of Jesse for a King to rule over Israel. Briefly
tell the story of this ideal rural home as pictured in
the context.
. The rural family is important
A. Socially (biologically)
The rural family is the “seed bed of population.”
World population is 75 per cent rural. In the
U.S.A. the population is 70 per cent urban and
30 per cent rural. Only 10 per cent of our rural
48
people are farmers. Children are the best crop
of all.
B. Cohesively.
There are destructive forces at work in our
society, tearing it to pieces (economic changes,
easy divorces, hasty marriages, low moral
movies, alcohol, and literature). There is one
divorce out of every three marriages in urban
areas. There is one divorce to every fourteen
marriages in rural areas. The family sticks to-
gether. Strong families make strong homes,
communities, and churches.
C. Religiously.
1. The family is the heart of evangelism.
2. The family is the base of Christian education.
Parents are the first evangelists and educa-
tors in the home. Here we learn co-operation,
the give and take of life, service without re-
wards, and the value of the individual.
Ill, Needs of the rural family
A. A Christian philosophy of life.
(A philosophy is a way of thinking and living.)
God first in relation to the person, family, soil,
farming, business, education, and fellowship.
B. Christian literature on tables and Christian pic-
tures on walls. Literature and art are the inter-
preters of religion. They voice the ideals of the
home. Guard the radio and TV lest they bring
unwholesome ideals into your home.
C. Christian music.
Music in the home should be the same as that
of the church. Music has been the handmaiden
of religion ever since the angels sang “Glory to
God in the highest, peace on earth to men of
good will.” Keep the home singing.
49
D. A sense of pride in the home.
The “home of the nation” is not necessarily the
White House in Washington, D.C., nor a glam-
our house pictured in Better Homes and Gar-
dens. It is the home where God is reverenced,
loved, obeyed, and served. It may be only a
hut. Make the home the best, cleanest, and
happiest place in the world—“Home, Sweet
Home.”
. Resources of the rural home
A.
Worship in the home.
Make the home a sanctuary, “a retreat,” an
“upper room.” Your church literature provides
devotional helps for the family.
. Regular public worship.
We cannot serve a God whom we do not wor-
ship. Get the habit of churchgoing. Worship
quiets the heart, gives new strength, clears the
vision, and strengthens the will. It gives new
courage to go forward.
. Education for home building.
This is the teaching task of the church. Chris-
tian marriage is a necessity to ensure a good
home. Young adults are the family producers.
They should know how to be good parents,
good neighbors, and good citizens.
. Fellowship with other families.
Families need each other just as persons do.
They need to eat, play, work, and worship to-
gether. This is a tie that binds hearts together.
Let the church have lots of home-comings, pic-
nics, reunions, and other get-togethers for the
good of families.
. Evangelistic fervor and motive.
When the families get the stir of “revive us
again,” the church will be revived and will work
50
to save others. It is easier for unchurched homes
to admit Christ through a living and growing
church.
V. Conclusion
The rural home must lay hold of the resources at
hand:
A. Worship.
B. Instruction.
C. Fellowship.
D. Evangelism.
THE ASCENSION AND
EXALTATION OF JESUS
(Ascension Day)
“So then the Lord Jesus, after he had spoken to them, was
taken up into heaven, and sat down at the right hand of
God.” —Mark 16:19
Introduction
The meaning of the two terms in the subject. Ascen-
sion—Jesus’ visible exit from earth to heaven. Exal-
tation—“right hand of God,” a figure of speech
denoting a place of power and authority. He makes
intercession for us now as our High Priest. We go
through him to the Father: “No one comes to the
Father, but by me” (John 14:6b).
. The necessity of the Ascension and exaltation of
Christ
His ascension was necessary because of:
A. The nature of Christ’s resurrected body.
It was not subject to ordinary laws; hence could
not permanently abide here.
51
. Christ’s unique personality and sinless life re-
quired such an exit. His entrance into this life
was accompanied by “angels,” “a star,” “wise
men,” and “shepherds.” The Ascension, as the
Bible gives it, was a fitting finish for a sinless
life.
. The Ascension and exaltation of Christ were
necessary to complete the plan of salvation. The
plan was not completed on the cross or on
Easter morning but when Jesus returned to the
Father and “sat down at the right hand of God.”
. The Ascension and exaltation of Christ gave the
Apostles and early church a satisfactory account
of the disappearance of his body. They could
say in the language of the text: “We saw him
‘taken up into heaven and sat down on the right
hand of God.’”
. The Ascension and exaltation of Christ were
necessary to make him an object of worship for
the whole race. His earthly ministry was local.
Now he has changed his presence for his omni-
presence: “God is spirit, and those who worship
him must worship in spirit and truth” (John
4:24),
The purpose of the Ascension and exaltation of
Christ
A.
Christ entered into heaven as a forerunner.
“|. . where Jesus has gone as a forerunner on
our behalf” (Heb. 6:20a). A forerunner enters
a place where the rest are to follow; he is one
who is sent on before to make observation, to
scout, and to spy out.
. He has gone to prepare a place for his people.
Make ready for their coming. “And when I go
52
and prepare a place for you, I will come again
and take you to myself, ...” (John 14:3).
C. He is appearing in our behalf.
“Since then we have a great high priest who has
passed through the heavens, Jesus, the Son of
God, let us hold fast our confession. For we
have not a high priest who is unable to sympa-
thize with our weaknesses, but one who in every
respect has been tempted as we are, yet without
sinning” (Heb. 4:14-15).
IV. The results of the Ascension, an exaltation of
Christ
A. Free access to God.
“By the new and living way which he opened
for us through the curtain, that is, through his
flesh, and since we have a high priest over the
house of God, let us draw near...” (Heb. 10:20-
22a). All believers have this access to God.
B. Assured hope of immortality.
We will take our place in heaven with a body
“like unto his glorious body.” Paul said: “For we
know that if the earthly tent we live in is
destroyed, we have a building from God, a
house not made with hands, eternal in the
heavens” (II Cor. 5:1).
C. Confidence in God’s dealings with us.
We can master our circumstances and environ-
ment with God’s help. Paul said: “I can do all
things in him who strengthens me” (Phil. 4:13).
“Who shall separate us from the love of Christ?”
(Rom. 8:35).
V. Conclusion
Recapitulate briefly.
53
POWER TO PUT IT ACROSS
(Pentecost SunpAyY)
“,.. but stay in the city, until you are clothed with power
from on high.” —Luke 24:49b
“But you shall receive power when the Holy Spirit has
come upon you;...” —Acts 1:8a
“For... our gospel came to you not only in word, but
also in power and in the Holy Spirit and with full
conviction. . . .” —I Thessalonians 1:5a
I. Introduction
The church of our day has leadership, buildings,
programs, attendance, budgets, and prestige. If
there is one thing the modern church lacks, it is
dynamics.
ll. Power defined
A. Our world is full of natural power.
1. Power of the elements—wind, water, heat,
steam, gas, electricity, atoms.
2. Power of man—social, intellectual, political,
financial, ecclesiastical, and military. All
these are on our own level.
B. Supernatural power—“power from on high.”
Illustration: Niagara Falls—169 feet above level
ground (water from on high). Supernatural
power is the vitalizing and energizing power of
the Holy Spirit. It is the spark that ignites the
powder. It is the power of God.
Ill. Power needed
A. Our attention, activities, and energies center
about programs, organizations, and money. Our
interests are bound up in the secondary things
of life. We are more problem conscious than
power conscious.
54
B. The power of the Holy Spirit is available to all
Christians. “But stay in the city, until you are
clothed with power from on high.” The power
of the Spirit is for the work of the Spirit. The
Spirit-filled life is normal, healthy, and dynamic.
- The source of power—“The Holy Spirit”
A. The Holy Spirit.
His office is to regenerate and empower for
service. The secret of the triumphant march of
the early church was the Holy Spirit.
. Christ fulfilled his promise to send the Holy
Spirit. On the day of Pentecost God opened the
flood gates and poured the Holy Spirit into wait-
ing, hungry, tired, empty, and wavering hearts.
They were all changed by the power of the
Spirit.
. The use of power
It is to be experienced and used. Power must al-
ways be a servant.
A.
Power to witness.
Scope of witness: “Jerusalem and in all Judea
and Samaria and to the end of the earth” (Acts
1:8b). A witness must be true, reliable, and
consistent.
. Power to preach the gospel.
Peter was “filled with the Holy Spirit” (Acts
4:8). Only Spirit-filled preaching is effective.
. Converting power.
After ten days of waiting in prayer and one
hour of preaching, 3,000 souls were won (Acts
2:41). The revival was continuous.
55
D. Power to suffer.
“Yet if one suffers as a Christian, let him not be
ashamed .. .” (I Pet. 4:16a). According to
Hebrews 11, many suffered for their faith. It is
so today in many countries.
. Power to serve.
“No one can serve two masters” (Matt. 6:24a).
“, .. but as for me and my house, we will serve
the Lord” (Josh. 24:15b). Service stands out on
every page of the Bible.
Vi. Channels of power
Refer to the hymn, “Is Your Life a Channel of
Blessing?”
Vil.
A.
D.
An earnest, pure, and unselfish life.
Power will not flow through a life of impurity.
Refer to Simon (Acts 8:19). Jesus said, “Blessed
are the pure in heart” (Matt. 5:8a).
. Right habits of prayer.
An Indian said, “I used to pray three times a
day, but now I pray only once a day, and that
is all the time.” The prayer habit will help us to
build up reservoirs of power.
. A genuine love for the Bible.
Have a good grip on the Bible. Believe in its
inspiration, the truth and efficacy of the blood,
reality of sin, forgiveness, and judgment. Know
how to handle your Bible.
A passion for lost men.
Christ’s heart ached for lost people (Luke 15).
Conclusion
All of us can obey the Bible as interpreted by the
Holy Spirit. (The Bible is full of tragedies of diso-
bedience.) Be alone with your Bible daily. Let it
speak to you. Be a good listener.
56
WE NEED A MEMORIAL DAY
“This day shall be for you a memorial day.”
—Exodus 12:14a
Introduction
Memorial Day was founded -by General John A.
Logan on May 30, 1868. It was the day the last
Union soldier was discharged. Decoration Day
originated with the South, was adopted by the
North, and approved by all states. Memorial Day is
a day consecrated to the memory of our heroic dead.
On it we rehearse the heroism, bravery, and sacri-
fices of soldiers of all our wars. The nation places
flowers on the graves of her dead.
. The nation needs a Memorial Day to:
A. Perpetuate the memory of great events in his-
tory and what they teach. Each generation
should know what has been done for it by its
predecessors. The Bible memorialized:
1. The Sabbath—a finished creation.
2. The deliverance from Egyptian bondage
(Feast of the Passover).
3. The Christian church memorializes the death
of Christ by the Holy Communion; his resur-
rection, by the Lord’s Day (Sunday).
How else can great events be perpetuated?
B. Our days of national remembrance include:
. Thanksgiving Day—1621.
. Independence Day—1776.
. Memorial Day—1868.
. Veteran’s Day—1918.
. V.E. and V.J. Days—1945.
“Lord of hosts be with us yet,
Lest we forget, lest we forget.”
57
oP WD Ee
Ill. The nation needs a Memorial Day to give thanks
Give thanks for the past and make high resolves for
the future.
A. Gratitude for the price paid and sacrifices made
for our freedom. Young men left their homes,
schools, pursuits for “call of country” to face
dangers, exposure, and death for a cause dear
to us all.
B. Their sacrifices were made for us—the living.
Today the nation should bow in humble prayer
and gratitude for its heroic dead. Gratitude is
more than “noise,” “fireworks,” and auto races.
. The nation needs a Memorial Day for instruction
During the observance of every national holiday of
the Bible, the Law was read, instruction given, and
the people worshiped. We must teach this genera-
tion four elements of Christian patriotism, which
are:
A. Freedom.
Freedom is the central idea of American life.
This is “the land of the free and the home of
the brave.” The four freedoms started with
Jesus of Nazareth and are re-emphasized in
our own day.
B. Loyalty.
To God, to the ideals of the Pilgrim Fathers, to
the Constitution, and to the home, the church,
the community, the state, and the nation.
C. Peace.
To end war we must do away with its sources—
hate, vengeance, tyranny, and power.
D. Faith.
Our national ideals are based on religious faith
—a sense of God in our history and life. Illustra-
tion: The president of Argentina once asked
58
Roger Babson, “Why is South America so far
behind in progress?” Babson answered, “What
do you say?” The president replied, “The Span-
iards came to South America seeking gold; the
Pilgrim Fathers came to North America seeking
God. That is the reason.”
V. The nation needs a Memorial Day for enlistment
We must conserve the fruits of sacrifice of those
gone on before by waging the tremendous battles
of peace. Some of these are:
A.
Starvation amidst abundance.
There have been more deaths from starvation
than from all wars and epidemics of history
during the last 100 years. We as a nation must
live with our surpluses, but there are no sur-
pluses in the world. Church-related organiza-
tions like CROP, Heifer Project, and CARE are
doing a lot with sharing surpluses.
. Control of nuclear weapons
Today there is grave concern among the
scientists who created the atom bomb that
eventually it will destroy all of us. The only
way to control any power is to control human
hearts. This is the task of the Christian church.
. Housing needs for our increasing population.
Some of our trailer towns and all of our slums
are a national disgrace. Practically all of our
minority groups are greatly in need of better
housing.
. Public schools need buildings and facilities.
We need more and better schools for the train-
ing of our rapidly growing population.
. Alcoholism.
This disease is homewrecker number one and
killer number three in the nation. Controls
59
Vi.
have failed; the remedy is the extermination of
the liquor traffic.
F. Ending of the cold war.
War increases needless expenditures on military
preparation and keeps us in “hot water” all
the time.
Conclusion
Memorial Day observances need rescuing from com-
mercialism, highway killings, drunkenness, and
revelry. The Christian church must project herself
more and more into our national life as “the salt
of the earth” and “the light of the world.”
THE HEAD OF A ROYAL HOUSEHOLD
“<
oe 6
(Fatuer’s Day)
Joseph the husband of Mary, of whom Jesus was
born, who is called Christ.” —Matthew 1:16b
Introduction
Joseph is the forgotten man of the Christmas story.
He is forgotten by the people, artists, writers, and
speakers. The Bible is our best source of informa-
tion concerning Joseph.
. The ancestry of Joseph
A. Joseph and Mary were descendants of David.
Matthew traces them back to Abraham, but
Luke goes back seventy-seven generations to
Adam. Their family tree was loaded with
kings, soldiers, and statesmen. They belonged
to royalty.
B. God is always careful of choice.
He selected a peasant of royal blood to be the
60
stepfather of his “only begotten Son.” Joseph’s
mission was clear in the plan of God.
Ill. The character of Joseph
A. He was a just and a righteous man.
Joseph’s relations with God, man, and people
were righteous.
B. He was a man of great faith.
God made a personal visit to Joseph in a dream:
“,.. an angel of the Lord appeared to him in
a dream...” (Matt. 1:20a).
C. He was a man of unquestionable obedience.
He must have been sorely tested, bewildered,
perplexed, and confused, but when God spoke,
“,.. he did as the angel of the Lord commanded
...” (Matt. 1:24a). Refer to his two years in
Egypt and his return to Nazareth.
D. He was a man of the Scriptures.
He found the answers to his problems in
Scripture; they revealed the plan of God for
him.
. The occupation of Joseph
He was not a member of the Sanhedrin or a Jewish
Rabbi. He belonged to the peasant class. His was
the honorable occupation of a carpenter. He was
acquainted with timber, the saw, rulers, yokes,
foundations, and buildings. Joseph and Jesus
honored and dignified labor. They were in touch
with human needs and were friends of the work-
ing man. Whatever degrades labor is a curse. All
work is holy if the heart is holy.
. The godly home of Joseph
A. He gave a godly example before all.
Every father should be a good example in the
home, in business, and in the church.
61
Vi.
Vil.
B. He taught in the home.
Jesus had both good teachings and good en-
vironment. Jewish boys memorized the Holy
Scriptures as early as the age of five. At the age
of twelve Jesus was taken to the Temple. His
knowledge of the Scriptures confounded the
doctors of the law.
. His attendance at worship was regular.
When Jesus was thirty years old, it was said of
him, “He went to the synagogue, as his custom
was, on the sabbath day . . .” (Luke 4:16b).
He had the holy habit of attendance in the house
of prayer. If you are not sure about how to
spend your Sundays, study about how Jesus
lived on the Jewish Sabbath. This was a day of
worship and positive service to God.
What did Jesus think of Joseph?
God is like a father. This conception changed New
Testament terminology of God—now he is regarded
as a Father: “Our Father who art in heaven.” A
father loves, cares, chastens, provides, counsels,
shares, etc.
Conclusion
Like Joseph, every father has a divine mission in
the world. On Father’s Day that sense of mission
is exalted. May it be so every day.
CHRISTIAN CITIZENSHIP
(Independence Day)
Romans 13:1-7
I. Introduction
On this July 4, we begin another year of indepen-
dence of the U.S.A. This dates back to 1776.
62
IV.
Vi.
Every American citizen should do all he can to
perpetuate his religious and civic birthrights and
to transmit to his posterity those free institutions
under which it has been his privilege to live.
Love for country
A Christian citizen is a patriot as was Jesus Christ,
whose mission started with his own nation.
Respect and obedience for the laws of the land
Laws are necessary. They promote the well-being
of the people. Christianity does not destroy patriot-
ism but develops and enriches it. If the laws are
bad, the citizens will work to change them.
Respect for those in public office
One of the common sins of America is to speak un-
founded evil of public officials. This is both a sin
and a mistake. Every Christian citizen should dis-
courage this practice by example and word.
. Voting intelligently and honestly
Some citizens do not vote at all. It is every citizen’s
duty to vote. Those who stand aloof because of
bad. politics worsen the situation. To know the
candidates and their policies is the first duty of
the voter. Exercise your franchise although your
candidate may not win the election.
Promoting general education of our citizenry
A republic like ours cannot exist where the people
are ignorant. Such people cannot understand their
duties and rights as American citizens. We must
promote intelligence among foreigners, in the
slums of our cities, among black, white, red, and
yellow people, under all circumstances and con-
ditions.
63
Vil. Elevation of spiritual and moral character of the
people
The heart as well as the head needs education:
“Righteousness exalts a nation, but sin is a re-
proach to any people” (Prov. 14:34). We must
recognize God who gave us our nation and has
guided its destiny. Let us exalt the banner of true
Christianity.
Vill. Conclusion
(Very briefly recapitulate the six points.)
STEPPING UP PRODUCTION
(Lazor Day)
“Every one helps his neighbor,
and says to his brother, ‘Take courage!
The craftsman encourages the goldsmith,
and he who smooths with the hammer him who strikes
the anvil,
saying of the soldering, ‘It is good... .”
—Isaiah 41:6-7
I. Introduction
We learn from outsiders. This is a factory scene.
The working force is small, equipment crude,
machinery poor; the spirit of the force is ideal and
wonderful. The church resembles a factory some-
what; both have buildings, equipment, resources,
a schedule of operation, and both place products on
a world market. Four views of this scene are taken:
Il. Purposeful activity
A. Everyone is at work.
The purpose is to fortify themselves against
the invader, Cyrus. The minority group is
64
facing a great emergency. Every wheel, belt,
pulley, and motor is humming. There are no
clock watchers or loafers around.
B. The production program of the church.
Jesus said, “I will build my church” (Matt.
16:18). He is the general superintendent of this
program. God has a purpose for his church. If
we fail him or our generation, he will raise up
a people through whom he can establish the
Kingdom.
C. To carry out this production program the
church needs tools.
(Leadership, building, equipment, resources,
an adequate working force, a challenging pro-
gram, a spirit of co-operation, and a spiritual
dynamic. )
HI. Helpful activity
“Everyone helps.”
A. Neighborly concern for all workers.
“Everyone helps his neighbor.”
1. Why are we not more neighborly?
There are divisive forces at work in our
society that build hedges between groups—
social, political, racial, religious hedges.
2. How can we be more neighborly?
By following the teachings of Jesus. Be a
good Samaritan yourself.
Hymn: “Help Somebody Today.”
B. No hindrances in this factory.
No obstacles, snags, or monkey wrenches. They
had the green light. Jesus was hindered by “un-
belief”; Paul said, “Satan hindered us.” Prayer,
“Lord, thou canst work and none can hinder.”
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IV.
The fact is God does not work when we hinder
by our stinginess, indifference, and pessimism.
C. All are helpful.
Wholehearted teamwork—no waste of time,
energy, talents, or resources. All for one and
one for all. Illustration: The big trees of Cali-
fornia grow in families; hence, they stand the
storms because of united roots.
Courageous activity
2?
“Everyone says to his brother, “Take courage.’
A. A brotherly concern.
William Penn made a treaty with the Indians.
It was never officially recorded or broken. He
established the city of Philadelphia (brotherly
love). Our weakness, our needs, our calling, our
task, our destiny all call for “brotherhood.”
B. There are some discouraging things about the
church today.
Some pastors are under the “juniper tree”; some
are going into business. Some laymen are pessi-
mistic. They exaggerate human weakness in-
stead of magnifying God’s power.
C. We must appeal to the hero in people, not the
coward.
If the church is weak and cowardly, she will be
pushed to the sidelines. We must “live like
heroes”; get out of the bleachers and into the
arena of life.
D. It is our duty and privilege to encourage our
brethren.
All of us need encouragement sometimes. It
costs nothing but helps a lot. There is a dif-
ference between honest praise and flattery.
Jesus always changed sick men’s outlook be-
fore healing them. “Be of good cheer.”
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V. integrated activity
(Not fragmentary, disunited, or hodgepodge. )
A. They brought all the parts together in one whole.
Each man had a different job but the same
goal. The common goal of the church is to
“build the body of Christ.”
B. We differ in ages, background, tastes, and
talents.
We come from all walks of life.
“... You have come to fullness of life in him
...” (Col. 2:10a).
VI. Conclusion
We step up production on the local level through
our purpose, helpfulness, courage, and united
action.
“,.. You have come to fullness of life in him
...” (Col.2:10a).
WE ARE ALL HERE
(Ratty Day)
“‘Now therefore we are all here present in the sight of
God, to hear all that you have been commanded by
the Lord. ... While Peter was still saying this, the
Holy Spirit fell on all who heard the word.”
—Acts 10:33b, 44
I. Introduction
Recount the visions of Cornelius, a Gentile lay-
man, and Simon Peter, a Jewish apostle. The
providential meeting of these two men the next day,
along with others at the home of Cornelius, pro-
vides the basis for this Rally Day message.
. A church-going congregation
“We are all here.”
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A. A record attendance.
Invitations had gone out. The effects of such
attendance on the pastor, the Sunday school, the
church officials, offering, and community were
inspiring and encouraging.
B. Church attendance is a privilege and a duty.
Every Christian needs his church services
regularly.
Refer to attendance examples of Jesus, the
apostles, and early church. Church attendance
is one of the highest and best examples parents
can set before their children.
C. Today church attendance is a problem.
One third of the Sunday school is in church;
30 per cent of the members attend the morning
services regularly and only 10 per cent, the
evening services. The absentee votes against
the church.
A worshiping congregation
“Present in the sight of God” (not just before the
pastor and officials).
A. All our worship is before God.
Singing, praying, sharing, listening, and or-
dinances are “before God,” not the people.
B. Why go to church?
Mixed motives and purposes. Fundamentally,
people go to church “to worship God.” Fine
buildings, costly instruments, large choirs,
vestments, and sermons are but avenues that
lead us to God in worship. We need a worship
experience each Sunday.
C. Christian worship demands preparation:
J. Of church building.
2. Of pastor and choir.
3. Of congregation.
4. Of worship program.
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5. Of the awareness of the presence of the
Holy Spirit.
D. The fruits of sincere worship are:
A quiet heart, purified motives, clarified vision,
and undergirded wills. (Spiritual batteries are
recharged. )
. An attentive congregation
“To hear all that you have been commanded by
the Lord.”
A. Receptivity—listening ears.
They listened for themselves—their own welfare.
They were hearers and doers of the Word.
B. The God-commanded message.
“God hath commanded thee.”
The pastor gets his message from God, not from
the Ladies Home Journal. Cornelius was saying
“Peter, tell us what God told you.” This is a lay-
man’s request of his pastor. The pastor speaks for
God—“a voice,” “a herald,” “an ambassador.”
He represents God. This is a great responsibility.
C. The whole message.
“All that you have been commanded by the
Lord.” The minister must not keep back any-
thing that is profitable to his hearers and is
God-commanded. Sometimes bitter medicine
does the most good. The message must be
given in the spirit of love—“Speaking the truth
in love” (Eph. 4:15a).
. A Spirit-filled congregation
“While Peter was still saying this, the Holy Spirit
fell on all who heard the word” (Acts 10:44).
A. The sermon was interrupted by the Holy Spirit.
This was the climax of the message.
Peter’s statement, “God shows no partiality.”
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The insider was convinced, and the outsiders
were taken into the fellowship of the church.
B. Results.
. Prayer and praise.
. Conversions.
. Ordinance administered.
. Church membership.
. Indoctrination—they asked Peter to remain
for some days. The Gentiles were accepted
into the faith.
oR ONE
VI. Conclusion
Rally Day is not just another day, but an event in
the history of the church.
WHAT A FRIEND WE HAVE IN JESUS
(Wortp ComMunIoN SuNnDAY)
“Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down
his life for his friends. You are my friends if you do
what I command you.”
—John 15:13-14
“The Son of man... a friend of publicans and sinners.”
—Luke 7:34
I. Introduction
Jesus had a way of saying things. His words were
simple, clear, and honest.
In this chapter Christianity is portrayed by two
illustrations:
A. It is a vital union with Christ, “Vine and
branches.”
B. It is a glorified friendship, “Ye are my friends.”
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Il. Jesus is a friend who is pure and holy
We need someone who is pure, holy, wise, eternal,
and strong,
A. The person of Jesus
“For it was fitting that we should have such a
high priest, holy, blameless, unstained, separate
from sinners, exalted above the heavens” (Heb.
7:26).
. We cannot work wholeheartedly with him if
we are not clean in body, mind, and soul.
“Know you not that you are God’s temple and
that God’s Spirit dwells in you?”
Jesus is a friend who is sympathetic
A.
He is approachable.
He has a personal interest in everyone. He
cares. (Song: “Jesus Will Remember When
the World Forgets.”)
. He understands our needs.
“For we have not a high priest who is unable
to sympathize with our weaknesses, but one
who in every respect has been tempted as we
are, yet without sinning” (Heb. 4:15).
. He loves all classes and peoples.
“When he saw the crowds, he had compassion
for them, because they were harassed and
helpless, like sheep without a shepherd” (Matt.
9:36).
. Jesus is a faithful friend
A.
He never “lets you down.”
One of life’s bitterest experiences is to have a
friend fail us. (Refer to hymn, “Just when
I Need Him, Jesus Is Near.”)
. History reveals the faithfulness of God.
God is faithful to nations, families, churches,
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individuals. “We know that in everything God
works for good with those who love him, who
are called according to his purpose” (Rom.
8:28).
V. Jesus is a sacrificial friend
Vi.
Greater love has no man than this, that a man lay
down his life for his friends.”
A. He gave himself for others.
“For you know the grace of our Lord Jesus
Christ, that though he was rich, yet for your
sake he became poor, so that by his poverty
you might become rich” (II Cor. 8:9).
B. His sacrifice was voluntary.
“For this reason the Father loves me, because I
lay down my life, that I may take it up again”
(John 10:17).
C. His sacrifice was for a purpose.
If applied, it will accomplish certain ends in
our lives—save us from the guilt, power, and
penalty of sin, to a life of service and useful-
ness.
Jesus is the friend you need
A. To lift you out of a life of sin.
Salvation is in a person. “I am the way, and
the truth, and the life; no man comes to the
Father but by me” (John 14:6).
B. To lift you above circumstances.
Things get us down (problems, circumstances,
environment, and temptations). “I can do all
things in him who strengthens me” (Phil 4:13).
C. To lead us safely through the “valley and
shadow of death.”
“Because I live, you will live also” (John 14:-
19b).
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VII. Conclusion
There is room for all in his friendship. He wants
you to introduce him to your friends.
SEEDTIME AND HARVEST
(Harvest Home)
“While the earth remains, seedtime and harvest, cold
and heat, summer and winter, day and night,
shall not cease.”
“Thou hast fixed all the bounds of the earth;
thou hast made summer and winter.”
—Psalm 74:17
I. Introduction
The regular comings and goings of the seasons are
a constant reminder to us that God has made us
promises and that he keeps those promises.
. An ordered nature
A. Pattern in nature.
Seasons rotate—days follow each other.
Our stewardship of time.
B. Stability in nature.
Therefore we have faith in the future.
C. Orderer of nature.
(See Colossians 1:16.)
A dependable nature
While the earth remains—
A. There will always be a seedtime.
All seed is from God. It is our guarantee of the
future.
B. There will always be a harvest.
Seed is productive. Illustrations: One ear of
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corn has one thousand grains, one stalk of
wheat stools up to twenty-five stocks.
C. Seedtime and harvest are God’s merciful
promise to all the inhabitants of the earth for
all time that the seasons of vegetation shall not
cease.
IV. A responsive nature
A. Nature is alive and responds to all the acts of
man.
(Food markets and surpluses.)
B. The material blessings of the harvest are sym-
bols of God’s unending love and faithfulness.
The Christian humbly gives thanks.
V. Conclusion
What is our responsibility to God for his ordered,
dependable, and responsive nature? Answer: to
live righteously and godly upon the earth.
LIFE’S RICHEST OFFERING
(StEwarpsuip SunpAY)
“, . but first they gave themselves to the Lord and to
us by the will of God... . For you know the grace of
of our Lord Jesus Christ, that though he was rich, yet
for your sake he became poor, so that by his poverty
you might become rich.”
—II Corinthians 8:5, 9
I. Introduction
Two matchless examples of self-giving in the text
are the Macedonian churches and Jesus Christ.
Paul uses these two to challenge the church at
Corinth to come through with an offering.
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Il. Their offering of themselves
“But first they gave themselves to the Lord.” All
money problems are spiritual problems.
A. The order of giving was proper.
“First themselves.” The giver before the gift.
Jesus met some “me first” people. Christ is not
in the secondhand business.
B. The gift—“themselves.”
It includes all we are and have. This is life’s
richest offering. Such giving is our need today.
We emphasize the giving of money instead of
dedication.
C. Their owner—“the Lord.”
The Macedonian churches accepted the lordship
of Jesus Christ. They could sing, “Bring forth
the royal diadem and crown him Lord of all.”
Their offering of money
They begged Paul for the opportunity to share with
the needy Christians.
A. Their giving was an expression of consecration
—not a substitute for it. Some would rather
write a check for five hundred dollars than
dedicate themselves at an altar of prayer. They
substitute giving for consecration.
B. They gave their money.
1. Humbly—sharing is a privilege.
2. Joyfully—making a gift to God should make
us happy.
3. Sincerely—an expression of their love.
4, Largely—-we share of twentieth-century
abundance.
5. Sacrificially—giving more than just excess.
C. The reason for such giving was their complete
dedication to the Lord. We do not say enough
about dedication when raising funds.
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IV. Their offering of service
“Gave themselves to the Lord and to us by the
will of God.”
A. They gave themselves to their church.
Paul, Barnabas, Timothy, and Titus represented
the church. We cannot give ourselves to Christ
without giving ourselves to his church. These
two are inseparable.
B. They placed themselves at the disposal of the
church.
That is what we did when we became members
of the church. Do your vows need renewing? A
nominal Christian said, “I am a member of the
church, but I belong to my lodge.”
C. This was God’s will for them—“by the will of
God.”
He extends his Kingdom through the church.
We dedicate ourselves. He consecrates us to
his service.
V. Conclusion
Here we have the triangle of stewardship—self,
possessions, service.
WHAT IS GOD DOING?
(VETERANS Day)
“But Jesus answered them, ‘My Father is working still,
and I am working,” —John 5:17
“For we are fellow workmen for God; you are God's
field, God's building.” —I Corinthians 3:9
I. Introduction
A. A working God.
Evidences of his work are seen in history, in the
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church, in the community, in our homes, and
in our own hearts.
B. A working devil.
A vicious, cunning, powerful, persistent force
of evil is at work in the world. Evidences of it
are seen in history, newspapers, communities,
and homes.
The encouraging thing about it all is that there
is a divine and human partnership at work
_ which will ultimately triumph. “My Father
worketh .. . I work.” “We are fellow workmen.”
Il. God is working to feed and clothe all his creatures
A. The basic necessities of life are food, clothing,
and shelter.
Man does not require a new car, radio, TV set,
deep freeze, or home, but “daily bread.” More
people have died from hunger during the last
one hundred years than from all wars and
epidemics of history. Today, one and one half
billion people experience “perpetual hunger.”
B. The church has an economic responsibility.
God’s primary concern for all people is “re-
conciliation.” He also sees his children in need
of food, homes, clothing, jobs, security, and
so on. At the feeding of the five thousand he
said, “Gather up the fragments” (John 6:12b).
C. Stewardship of natural resources is necessary.
Consider the unchristian use of soil, water,
forests, minerals, and wild life.
The Christian use of these involves a partner-
ship with God in the creation and distribution
of the fruits of the “good earth” to the hungry,
homeless, and distressed of our world.
D. All people of the world are hungry for:
Literacy, housing, schools, hospitals, peace, rec-
ognition, and finding a meaning to life. Jesus
7
said, “You give them something to eat” (Matt.
14:16).
lll. God is working for peace in the world
War is a curse which must be banished from God’s
earth
A. We have had two world wars in one generation.
In these wars ninety million lives were lost,
twenty millions became displaced persons, and
property loss is incalculable. Our only method
for establishing peace from time in memoriam
has been by means of guns, armies, and slaugh-
ter. God’s way is to “wage peace” through godly
people. Peace does not spring up overnight
like a plant. It requires, work, sacrifice, and
determination.
B. God’s way is peace through reconciliation.
God gave his Son for “peace on earth.” The
cross makes friends of enemies; it does away
with hate, revenge, and suspicion; it makes
men “brothers.”
C. Peace is a responsibility of the church.
The church is entrusted with “the ministry of re-
conciliation” and “the message of reconciliation”
(II Cor. 5:18, 19). She is the evangelist of
peace. We must give our wealth, young people,
and prayers for peace in our time.
IV. God is working for a united world
(Food, peace, unity. )
A. Our present disunity.
On the international front there have been
several major wars since VJ Day in 1945—such
as the struggles in China, Greece, Indonesia,
Palestine, Korea, Suez. Two irreconcilable
philosophies are at work in the world: Chris-
tianity and communism.
78
B. It is not all disunity on the church front.
The church must work to advance Christian
unity.
“In Christ there is no East or West,
In Him no South or North,
But one great fellowship of love
Throughout the whole wide earth.”
—John Oxenham
C. Our Lord’s supreme desire for church unity.
Five times he prayed “that they may all be
one” (John 17:21).
That prayer was for the disciples and the
church up to now.
D. The essentials of Christian unity are:
1, One leader—“He is the head of the body,
the church” (Col. 1:18a).
2. One message—“Christ died for our sins” (I
Cor. 15:3b).
3. One fellowship—world-wide.
4, One strategy—the Great Commission.
V. Conclusion
A divine and human partnership working for food,
peace, and unity.
PASS THE SALT PLEASE!
(Community SunpaY)
“You are the salt of the earth; but if salt has lost its taste,
how shall its saltness be restored? It is no longer good
for anything except to be thrown out and trodden under
foot by men.” —Matthew 5:13
79
Introduction
Jesus started a “salty church.” She had lots of
spirit, edge, tang, and bite. Her radiance con-
tinued for two hundred years.
. This verse warns. us of a peculiar danger. Salt may
lose its savor. Its savor lost, the church would
stand for nothing and be good for nothing.
. Does your church have salt to pass (saltlike
qualities)?
A. Salt is savory.
Bites, keen edge, tang, flavor, radiance, fervor.
In the fellowship of a salty church, cliques and
snobs cannot operate.
Big handshake for all. A handshake is preach-
ing the gospel without words in close quarters.
Religion is like a steam roller: “The ground is
level at the cross.” Lots of spirit.
B. Salt is a preserver (keeps foods from spoiling—
bacon, hams).
Christianity has preserving and counteracting
qualities. Makes it easier to go right than
wrong.
Who wants to live where there are no churches?
Life is safer, cleaner, more progressive, and
happier in a church community.
C. Salt has seasoning qualities.
Adds little to food in itself but brings out the
best in it.
Christianity puts meaning into life; gives it
purpose and direction. Jesus enriches every-
thing he touches in our lives. He adds the gold
of quality. (Tell story of King Midas.)
D. Salt has redeeming and purifying qualities.
The “salt of God’s grace” makes men “whole.”
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Christianity inspires men and women, boys and
girls, to undertake to live the one clean life.
Does your church have this salt in abundance
so that it may be passed to the entire com-
munity?
lll. To whom must the church pass the salt?
A. To all homes of the community.
Home is the focal point of integration of
church programs. The strength and success of
any church depends upon the brand of spirit-
ual life of the membership. When all homes are
won, we will have a thoroughly Christian com-
munity. The salt can be passed by means of:
1. Visiting.
2. Letter writing.
8. Social contacts.
4. Family gatherings.
B. To the public schools.
The schools are character-building agencies;
they train the mind—make good citizens. Schools
are one of the pillars of democracy. They are
closely linked with the home and church. The
church should participate in all school activities
and the school in those of the church—a co-
operative task in the community.
C. To the business firms of the community.
The function of business is to serve the public.
Business men and women are community
builders. They are first to support all worth-
while programs and campaigns. Every com-
munity needs Christian business men and wo-
men. The church should support local firms
instead of mail order houses.
D. To the newspapers.
Newspapers are community builders. They
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give the news of local interest; publish church
notices, programs, sermons, and parish activ-
ities. Let the church make friends of the news-
paper men and firms in the community.
E. To the hospitals and health centers.
The church has the gospel of good health to
proclaim; she has the Great Physician who is
near. There are opportunities for Christ in visit-
ing and praying with the sick. The church must
help induce more doctors and nurses to locate
in the small town community.
F. To the community agencies.
These would include the library, Farm Bureaus,
4-H clubs, co-operatives, youth groups, service
clubs, etc. She must work with and through all
these existing organizations. Her people belong
to them, and some are leaders in them.
G. To the occupational groups.
Who are they?
1. Laborers. Members of this group, as a rule,
have large families, are poor, and have only
limited privileges. They need the church
very much and in turn would greatly in-
crease the church’s strength.
2. Tenants. Forty-six per cent of our farmer
population belongs to this group. It has been
said that the tenant is like the proverbial
Irishman’s flea—constantly on the move. It
is hard to interest tenants in the church be-
cause of short tenure.
3. Migrants. There are two and one half mil-
lions of these displaced persons right on our
doorsteps. They are without normal home
life, community life, school, and church life.
Only 5 per cent of them have any church
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affiliations whatsoever. We can invite and
welcome them to our churches while they are
among us. Through vacation schools and
adult classes, churches can minister further
to this neglected group.
IV. Conclusion
The church that reaches out into all its community
with the gospel will never lose its “savor,” but will
increase and heighten its quality. Failure number
one of many rural churches has been the failure
to serve the community. As a result they have
rightly been eliminated.
Keep the church strong, fervent, and progressive;
keep her vision clear, her spiritual batteries re-
charged, and the mainspring of service well oiled.
CAUSE FOR THANKSGIVING
(THanxscrvine Day)
“Thus says the Lord: ‘Let not the wise man glory in his
wisdom, let not the mighty man glory in his might, let
not the rich man glory in his riches; but let him who
glories glory in this, that he understands and knows me,
that I am the Lord who practice kindness, justice, and
righteousness in the earth; for in these things I delight,
says the Lord.”
—Jeremiah 9:23-24
I. Intreduction
Historically, Israel was on her way to the Baby-
lonian Captivity. She had rejected God’s leadership
and was relying on her own resources of knowl-
edge, power, and riches. At this time Jeremiah was
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the most unpopular man in Israel. The keynote of
his message was that the Jews were doomed be-
cause they ignored God and depended upon their
own resources.
. Things not to glory in
A. Wisdom.
We are thankful for our efficient educational
system. Of the first 105 colleges founded in
America, all but four were church colleges.
God is the fountain of all wisdom.
B. Power.
We have the greatest resources of any nation
on earth. We have world leadership and inter-
national influence for which we thank God.
Lincoln said, “Let us have faith that right makes
might and in that faith let us dare to do our
We thank God for financial blessings and pros-
perity. History shows that riches are uncertain;
they “take wings.” Wisdom, power, and riches
are useful only when placed at God’s disposal.
Some things to glory in
A. Understanding of God.
This includes intellectual knowledge of God,
the Christian religion, the Bible, church, Chris-
tian literature, the ordinances, and so on. We
never knew as much about God as we do today.
B. Knowledge of God.
Personal, experimental, practical acquaintance
with God through Jesus Christ. Paul said, “I
know whom I have believed . . .” (II Timothy
1:12b).
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C. Opportunities to serve God.
“Blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord,
the people whom he has chosen as his heritage!”
(Ps. 33:12).
IV. The obligation of prosperity
A. Kindness in the use of riches.
“I practice loving kindness.”
God is kind to people, nations, and the world.
Illustrations: The work of Heifer Project, Church
World Service, CROP, and other humanitarian
programs.
B. Justice.
In justice, God established a moral basis for
solutions of all problems, God has no favorites,
no pets, no box stalls in heaven for special
friends. He is a God of justice. “And what does
the Lord require of you but to do justice .. . ?”
(Mic. 6:8).
C. Righteousness.
Not to oppress, but to uplift and encourage. Un-
selfish devotion to the service of God and man.
God delights in showing kindness, justice, and
righteousness.
V. Conclusion
Always distinguish between boasting and thanks-
giving. Be thankful for your many blessings each
day. Delight in what God delights to do—practice
loving-kindness, justice, righteousness.
THE SADDEST WORDS IN THE BIBLE
(Apvent SEason)
“He was in the world, and the world was made through
him, yet the world knew him not. He came to his own
85
home, and his own people received him not. But to all
who received him, who believed in his name, he gave
power to become children of God.”
—Jobn 1:10-13
Introduction
The prologue (John 1:1-18) is John’s Christmas
story. It is a condensation of the entire twenty-one
chapters. A new title is given Jesus by John:
“Word.” It is different from other titles and hard to
understand. The word is God speaking through an
act—a gift. (Refer to John 3:16.)
. The great event—"He came”
A. Christianity is a historical fact.
Christ came according to the plan of God“...
when the time had fully come” (Gal. 4:4).
His coming is the central fact of history. It
divides time—s.c. and a.v. The centuries circle
about Christ like rings on a tree.
B. Christ came as a man by way of the cradle
(his humanity).
Child—son—man. He grew up, toiled, grew
weary, was tempted, but without sin. How else
could he know our needs? How else could we
draw near him? He spoke of himself as “the
son of man.”
C. Christ came as God (his divinity):
1. To forgive our sins.
2. To comfort our hearts.
3. To restore our dead.
4, To be our perfect ideal.
He comes afresh to all our hearts during the
Advent season.
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Ill. The dark tragedy—"His own people received him
not”
He was ignored and rejected by unbelief.
A. Ignored—“the world knew him not.”
“Cold-shouldered,” “high-hatted,” “brushed
aside.”
He was not acknowledged as the Messiah, nor
did the people accept his offer of salvation.
They slammed the door in his face. John sees
unbelief as man’s greatest sin.
B. Rejected—“His own people received him not.
The Jews, the Holy City, the church of his day,
and his home town rejected him. His ancestral
religion turned against him. Everywhere he
went it was either rejection or acceptance. The
Jews crucified him.
>
. The bright opportunity of Christmas
“But to all who received him, who believed in his
name, he gave power to become children of God.”
The word “but” is the bridge of the text.
A. The opportunity is for all men—“whosoever
believes” (John 3:16). God’s gift is to all
people for all time.
B. The reception—“as many as received him.”
This requires personal faith:
1. As Savior—the angel said, “you shall call
his name Jesus, for he will save his people
from their sins” (Matt. 1:21b).
“For to you is born this day . . . a Savior,
who is Christ the Lord” (Luke 2:11). He
saves from a life of sin to one of holiness and
service.
2. As Lord—many church people do not accept
him as “Lord of their lives.” We must turn
over all the keys of our life to him.
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C. Believers in Christ become “children of God.”
“But to all who received him ... he gave power
to become children of God.”
1. By regeneration—” . . . unless one is born
anew, he cannot see the kingdom of God”
(John 3:3).
2. By adoption into the family of God—take
family name, have family privileges and joys.
A kinship of all believers throughout the
world—“Members of the household of God”
(Eph, 2:19).
3. By likeness—We resemble Christ in motive,
mission, prayer, forgiveness, sacrifice, obedi-
ence, patience, devotion, and service: “Be
like Jesus all day long.”
V. Conclusion
“He came.” The wonder of it all is that he would
condescend to come to us. We are valuable in his
sight—worth dying for. We must live for him.
Bright opportunity is to “receive him.”
THE BIBLE, THE GREATEST BOOK
IN THE WORLD
(UntversaL Brste SuNpAy)
“Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will
not pass away.” oC eee
—Matthew 24:
1. Introduction
Sir Walter Scott and the Bible. On his dying bed,
Scott said, “Bring me the Book.” Knowing he had
written many books, the nurse asked, “What book?”
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Scott answered, “There is only one book for me—
the Bible.” One does not read Keats, Shelley, and
Shakespeare to comfort dying people. Only the
Bible can do that.
Il. The Bible has the greatest author
He who created the universe and man, perfected
the plan of salvation, and built a heaven for the
soul has the power to inspire a book that will meet
the needs of all men everywhere.
A. God is the chief author of the Bible.
It is “God-breathed.”
There are many Bible writers who, as “holy
men of old,” heard God speak and wrote his
message in the language of their day. The
Bible was not dropped down from heaven. It
came through human instrumentality.
B. Jesus testified of the authorship of the Bible.
“It is written . . . “Every word that proceeds from
the mouth of God’” (Matt. 4:4).
(Recount the journey on the Emmaus Road
in Luke 24.)
C. The apostles testified as to the authorship of
the Bible.
Refer to the statements of Peter and Paul.
The Bible has the greatest message
A. The culminating purpose of the Bible is to
reveal God in Jesus Christ as Savior and Lord.
Take the cross from the Bible, and there is
nothing left but darkness.
B. Nature reveals God.
The Bible tells us about Him whose blood was
shed for our sins (I Cor. 15:3-5).
C. The Bible nourishes Christian experiences and
promotes growth.
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Systematic Bible study is indispensable for the
Christian.
IV. The Bible alone meets the basic spiritual needs of
all people
A. Man’s deepest needs are spiritual.
He knows there is something wrong in his life
which only God can adjust. Accepting the will
and purpose of God will bring peace to the
soul.
B. Some of these deep needs are:
. Peace with God and man.
. Forgiveness for past wrongs.
. Fellowship with God and man.
. Assurance of sins forgiven.
. Hope based on the immutable word of God.
. Comfort in the dying hour.
All of these deep needs the Bible can meet.
aOoPrwonre
V. The Bible has great influence
A. On civilization.
Why are so many nations in Asia, Africa, and
South America far behind other nations in
progress? The missionaries take the Bible; the
flag, schools, hospitals, and churches follow.
B. On our national life.
The Bible is in many ways the cornerstone of
our Republic.
Our Constitution and laws reflect its principles.
The Bible has stirred our consciences against
national ills like slavery.
C. On society as a whole.
No sound social fabric can ever meet the needs
of man that is not saturated with the word of
God: “Man does not live by bread alone.”
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D. On education.
The Bible is the mother of the public school in
America as well as most of our early colleges.
We have climbed to our great educational
efficiency on the ladder of religion. Let us not
kick the ladder from beneath us.
E. On art.
The greatest art in the world centers about the
Bethlehem manger, the Madonna, the trans-
figuration, the resurrection, and the ascension.
VI. The Bible is the greatest book in the world because
it is eternal
“My words will not pass away.”
A. The Bible lives and sells.
It has been translated into more than 1,130
languages and dialects. Few books outlive their
authors. The Bible is the all-time best seller.
B. The Bible lives because it is God’s word.
Like God, it is “from everlasting to everlasting”
(Ps. 90:2).
Men die, fortunes fail, nations come and go,
crowns tumble, stars will rot out of their sockets,
but “the Word of God endureth forever.”
Vil. Conclusion
Let us believe the Bible more, trust it, teach it,
and live it all the days of our lives.
A SMALL TOWN SAVIOR
(CuristMas )
“Now when Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea in the
days of Herod the king, behold, wise men from the
East came to Jerusalem, ...” —Maitthew 2:1
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I. Introduction
Bethlehem today is a small town of four thousand
people, most of whom are Christians. Dozens of
workshops which manufacture souvenirs flourish
there. Nothing is especially picturesque about
Bethlehem or its people. It was a fitting place for
the birth of Him who was to share our humanity.
. Bethlehem in the Bible
A. Rachel was buried there in perhaps 1729 B.c.
B. It was the home of Naomi, Ruth, and Boaz.
C. It was the birthplace of King David—at about
1085 3.c.
D. Bethlehem in prophecy—Micah 5:2: “.. . O
Bethlehem . . . from you shall come forth...
one who is to be ruler in Israel, .. .”
E. The Church of the Nativity is located in Bethle-
hem.
It was built in 327 a.v. by the Empress Helena,
mother of Constantine.
It is used by all faiths today.
Jesus was born in Bethlehem
Why not in Rome, Jerusalem, or Alexandria?
A. If Jesus were born today in New York, Phil-
adelphia, or Chicago, there would be “no room
for him.”
The holiday basketball tournament, a political
convention, the world champion prize fight, the
World Series, or some other big event would be
on. All hotel rooms would be taken.
B. The chief concern of large cities is not Jesus
Christ.
(The chief need is for Him.)
Large cities are concerned about trade, sky-
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scrapers, expansion, newspapers, and sports.
They are not Christ-centered but “tree-cen-
tered,” “gift-centered,” and “money-centered.”
We must take the Savior to the large cities.
C. Jesus was born in the small town of Bethlehem
—among tradesmen, farmers, common people,
sheep, and cattle. A birth in a small town is
news. In the city, babies are shelved like dolls.
It was in the Judean hills where the voice
echoed around the world: “There is born unto
you this day a Savior.”
D. There is more hope for a child in a small town
than in a city.
In the small town there are better possibilities
for a future under the loving of friends and free
of much juvenile delinquency.
E. Jesus was a small-town preacher. (Bethlehem,
Capernaum, Nazareth)
In Jerusalem Christ cleansed the Temple and
was crucified.
. Bethlehem in our lives
A. Our common humanity with Jesus
Jesus came as a man who toiled among us, was
weary, lonely, and tempted. How else could we
know him or draw near to him? How else
could he learn our needs?
B. The Wise Men returned from Bethlehem an-
other way.
Life never was the same for them after they
had “. . . worshiped him. Then opening their
treasures, they offered him gifts, gold and
frankincense and myrrh” (Matt. 2:11).
C. In Jesus we have a new birth, a new life, and a
new way of life.
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All three of these were made possible through
“Jesus who was born in Bethlehem.”
V. Conclusion
“O Holy Child of Bethlehem, descend to us
we pray;
Cast out our sin, and enter in; be born in us
today.
We hear the Christmas angels, the great glad
tidings tell;
O come to us, abide with us, Our Lord Em-
manuel,”
—Phillips Brooks
WHY | BELIEVE IN
THE 4-H CLUB MOVEMENT
“And Jesus increased in wisdom and in stature, and in
favor with God and man.”
—Luke 2:52
I. Introduction
The 4-H Club movement is a part of the National
Agricultural Extension Service. It was organized
by the United States Department of Agriculture in
co-operation with State College of Agriculture
and County Extension Service. In 1914 members
numbered 116,262; by 1950 more than 2,000,000
boys and girls were in 4-H work. That number
is continuing to increase.
. The things for which 4-H stands
A. Head—a clean mind for clear thinking and
planning.
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AH OA
. Heart—a heart that is sympathetic, pure, and
true.
. Hands—that are helpful, skillful, and useful.
. Health—to enjoy life, resist disease, work ef-
ficiently.
. Service—not only for personal development,
but service to home, community, and country.
A training agency for rural leaders
The 4-H Club has distinctive educational ap-
proaches.
A.
The project method is employed.
Boy—a calf, an acre; girl—fruit, dress, hat. Both
demonstrate what they have learned.
. It trains in habits of healthful living.
Health is one of God’s best gifts; take care of it
by eating proper foods and keeping good habits.
. It trains in co-operation (teamwork).
Rural and urban youth learn dependence one
upon the other. Recently, city leaders invested
$350,000.00 to help one thousand farm youth
come to Chicago and take part in the National
4-H Club Congress.
. It trains in willingness to accept responsibility.
Jobs given to boys and girls are challenging.
. It trains in citizenship.
Opportunities to be useful citizens are numerous.
- Opportunities for wholesome fellowship and
recreation for rural youth
A.
The 4-H Clubs bring much needed recreation
to rural youth.
A change from the normal and ordinary routine
of work. “All work and no play... .”
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Vi.
. It provides meetings for boys and boys and
girls and girls.
In some states, it is boys and girls. Sometimes
a local church can make available itse base-
ment and grounds for 4-H Club work.
. Members participate in many group activities.
Local clubs, country rallies, achievement days,
trips, tours, camps.
. These contacts guide young people in making
important choices.
Included would be choice of companions, life
work, and so on.
. A program of advance
This is indicated by its rapid growth in member-
ship.
A.
In the home.
The 4-H Club emphasizes four fundamental
institutions: home, church, school, and com-
munity organizations. The latter helps the
other three to get closer together. No com-
munity is stronger than its homes.
. In the community.
The 4-H Club carries out the things for which
it stands-HHHH. Shows products of work
done. Life is cleaner, safer, more progressive,
and healthier in the community.
. In the nation.
Nothing can go far wrong in America when we
are building a citizenship such as that promoted
by the ideals of the 4-H Club movement.
Conclusion
I therefore base my reasons for believing in and
supporting the 4-H Club movement upon the fact
that I see great value in:
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A. Its purpose and ideals.
B. Its training agency.
C. Its fellowship and recreation program.
D. Its over-all program.
THE MEANING AND CHALLENGE
OF AN ANNIVERSARY
(CaurcH ANNIVERSARY )
“Then Samuel took a stone and set it up between
Mizpah and Jeshanah and called its name Ebenezer;
for he said, ‘Hitherto the Lord has helped us.”
—I Samuel 7:12
I. Introduction
The chapter tells the story of a national revival
long: overdue. It records a great spiritual victory
at Mizpah and the defeat of the Philistines. The
monument erected ascribes the victory to the help
of God. It was a milestone in the history of Israel.
Il. A recognition of divine help
“The Lord has helped us.”
A. All of us need divine help constantly.
Hymn: “I Need Thee Every Hour”
B. The unfailing source of help is God.
We must find and use it as did Moses, Daniel,
Samuel, Jesus, and the disciples.
C. The testimony of Israel was “hitherto”—to this
hour.
National significance. The same can be said of
our country, our national church body, and our
local congregation.
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Ill. How does God help his people?
The answer is found in this chapter.
A.
B.
Through a leader who is divinely led.
Following Samuel, the people were safely led.
Through great spiritual awakenings.
Samuel was a teacher-evangelist. It took him
twenty years to re-create the nation. The
awakening finally came.
. Through supplementation.
God supplements human weakness with divine
power. He made up what Israel lacked. Israel
was no match for the Philistines. It was God
who “discomfited the Philistines.” How fortunate
to be on God’s side!
. Through the means of grace.
These include prayer, worship, Bible meditation,
public worship, ordinances, and fellowship.
. The challenge of an anniversary
What is your answer to an anniversary?
A.
Dedicate anew your life to Christ and his
church.
Renew church vows; square your life with your
Lord.
. Attend church services regularly.
Keep up the church-going habit; show your
colors; raise your flag. The stayers-at-home are
a traffic blockade on the King’s highway.
. Support the church willingly.
With your presence, gifts, encouragement, in-
fluence, and good will.
Be a “flowing well” Christian, not a pump that
constantly needs priming.
“As we give, we live.”
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D. Promote the whole program of the church
constantly.
Don’t be a fractional Christian; take the whole
program and push it fifty-two weeks a year.
E. Do some pioneering yourself.
Blaze some new trails in stewardship, worship,
evangelism, education, fellowship, and missions.
V. Conclusion
Make a strong appeal for rededication on this
anniversary day.
BENEFITS OF THE LORD’S ACRE PLAN
(Lorp’s Acre Sunpay)
“Honor the Lord with your substance
and with the first fruits of all your produce.”
—Proverbs 3:9
“The fust of the first fruits of your ground you shall
bring to the house of the Lord your God... .”
—Exodus 34:26
I. Introduction
The first text and following verse is an exhortation
with a promise. The second text is the biblical
basis for the harvest festival when the ingathering
of grain, fruits, oil, and wine were celebrated.
. Honoring the Lord with our substance
A. What is our substance?
It is all that we have—our acres, stocks, homes,
machinery, sons, daughters, radio, TV sets,
and so forth.
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B. God demanded the first: fruits of all our in-
heritance.
The first-born son was to be a priest. The best
of the flocks were to be a sacrifice to the lord.
The best of the grain, cattle, oil, and wine were
to be brought to the Lord’s house.
C. How do we honor the Lord with our substance?
1. By acknowledging his ownership of it.
2. By setting aside the first fruits—now our
“tithes and offerings.”
Blessings of the Lord’s Acre project
A. Spiritual growth.
Religion means more to us when it gets into
our muscles, bones, and heart.
B. A definite aid to evangelism.
Families that are not Christian are encouraged
to and do participate in the project. It is a step
in soul winning.
C. Encourages stewardship practices.
It trains children and young people in steward-
ship. They have their own money from acres
and stock. As a rule, they are quite generous.
D. Builds community solidarity.
It is a “tie that binds our hearts in Christian
love.” As we fellowship together, we live and
work together. It is the “togetherness” that
counts.
E. Missionary education at the “grass roots.”
Material aid, livestock, and food are sent over-
seas.
F. Discovers new leadership for the church.
Dependability, self-reliance, initiative, and
loyalty are good leadership qualities. (Example:
Joseph became “secretary of agriculture” in
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Egypt because of his ability to manage re-
sources wisely. )
IV. Why does the Lord’s Acre program continue to
grow?
It is used in every state of the union and in 1 many
foreign countries.
A. It is a sound practice.
Serves as a “spiritual conditioner.” Old and
young enjoy fellowship with God in daily
work.
B. It is highly adaptable.
Any congregation can fit it into its needs.
C. It is fruitful.
Objectives can be obtained in no other way;
attracts attention in community and creates
greater interest in all the work of the church.
V. Conclusion
Reread the text.
GROWING OLDER GRACEFULLY
(Senior Crrizen’s Day)
“But they who wait for the Lord shall renew their
strength,
they shall mount up with wings like eagles,
they shall run and not be weary,
they shall walk and not faint.” —Isaiah 40:31
I. Introduction
Two elderly men in a Dayton, Ohio, depot—a re-
cluse and-an active Christian—engaged in con-
versation. The recluse said, “I am sixty-eight years
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old; there is nothing worthwhile in this old life.”
The Christian answered, “I am eighty-two years
old, and today has been the happiest day of my
life.” (It was not a birthday, anniversary, or
reunion, but just another day lived in close touch
with God.) It is possible to grow older gracefully
by the following formula.
. Keep in touch with children and young people
A. Grownups need to be linked to children.
Children have a viewpoint: they are humble,
have large faith, forgive readily, and play with-
out discrimination. Jesus said, “Except ye be-
come as little children.” Childlikeness is not
childishness.
B. Children have a way of disciplining adults.
They teach parents self-control, patience, and
self-sacrifice.
Parents find great satisfaction in living for their
children.
C. Young people have the forward look.
They have the spirit of venture; they are en-
thusiastic and courageous.
(Age and youth are complementary; they need
each other.)
Visit high schools, colleges, and camps and get
the “thrill of youth.”
. Keep in touch with books
Feed the mind lest it grow stale and rusty.
A. Good books are good companions.
“Carry a book” and be in good company.
Books are the tools of adult education.
B. Plan mental life for continuous growth.
Avoid “ruts” and “merry-go-round” living.
We must keep our minds open to truth.
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IV. Keep in touch with work
Vi
Have something to do if at all possible.
A. This human machine was made for work, and
the latest medical science tells us that it was
built to last 150 years (retirement and pen-
sions). When we are doing something, we are
happy and useful.
B. Work must be done with moderation.
“All play and no work makes Jack a play boy.”
“Eager beavers” do not follow moderation. Find
work for capacities, talents, and strength.
. Keep in touch with nature
Do not be a house plant or wallflower:
A. Nature renews her youth four times a year:
Winter, spring, summer, autumn.
God also has a gorgeous color scheme for each
season.
B. The fountains of youth are not in the drugstore
or beauty parlor, but in God’s out-of-doors.
There we find fresh air, good food, exercise,
mountains, hills, sunshine, and streams. These
are the restorers of life.
C. Have an out-of-door hobby.
Fish, garden, travel, row a boat, go barefoot,
gaze at the Great Dipper, Milky Way, Morning
Star, sunrise, sunsets.
Keep in touch with God
“They who wait for the Lord shall renew their
strength.”
A. Personal communion with God.
There is no substitute for personal communion
with God.
Keep the channels of prayer open..
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B. Bible reading.
Avoid the hit and miss method of Bible study
and follow the regular and fyeemehe way.
. Worship habits.
Many older people drop out of worship ser-
vices. Reasons given are that they no longer get
anything out of them, are not recognized, can
make only small financial contributions, and
so on. The soul needs constant irrigation from
the “fountain of life’-—God. “There is a river
whose streams make glad the city of God”
(Psalm 46:4).
VII. Conclusion
Keep these contacts, and you will grow older grace-
fully.
A FOUR-LEAF CLOVER BOUQUET
(Weppinc ANNIVERSARY SERMON)
“Let love be genuine; . . . Rejoice in your hope, be
patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer.”
—Romans 12:9, 12
I. Introduction
The twelfth chapter of Romans is like a beauti-
ful flower garden through which we may roam
and gather the bouquets of our choice at will. These
are always in season, and the supply is inexhaus-
tible. As the subject suggests, I wish to make up
a bouquet of four of these lovely, unfading flowers.
They are love, hope, patience, and prayer.
. Genuine Love
“Let love be genuine.” This is the first essential
in a happy marriage.
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Paul here characterizes this ingredient by two
statements:
A. Love has a horror for evil.
Evil. destroys character. and life. God hates
evil, but he loves the evildoer.
Don’t trifle with evil.
B. Love clings to that which is good.
One translation says “glued, cemented” to the
good.
Illustration—“vulcanized” tires.
These two terms suggest complete devotion to
that which is good.
Joyful Hope
“Rejoice in your hope.” Hope is the expectation of
future good.
A. We have hope chests all our days.
We hope our health may not fail, that our chil-
dren will be educated, that no long illness will
be ours, that we may have funds for “the rainy
day,” and so forth. We also hope for “a home
in heaven” where we will see our loved ones
who have gone before and who will follow. We
hope to see Jesus.
B. Our hope is based on sure foundations.
1. The Word of God—the constitution and
charter of our hope.
2. The finished work of Jesus Christ—so we
sing, “My hope is built on nothing less.”
C. The influence of hope.
“Hope, a sure and steadfast anchor of the soul”
(Hebrews).
An anchor digs in; it steadies; stops drifting. It
gives peace of mind and heart.
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IV. Immovable patience
“Be patient in tribulation.”
Vi.
A.
In tribulation (thrashing).
Our trials, heartaches, and frustrated plans
test us severely.
Jesus said: “In the world you have tribulation;
but be of good cheer, I have overcome the
world” (John 16:33).
. Patience is a good teacher.
We learn how to suffer. Think of the patience
of God when wars destroy cultures and peo-
ples; think of the patience of a mother with her
babe—someday he will be an adult; think of the
patience of a farmer who plants his crops and
waits for the harvest. We all need to be more
patient.
. Patience purifies our lives.
It makes us better Christians. It separates the
wheat from the chaff.
. Constant prayer
“Be constant in prayer.”
A.
The strength of prayer is needed for patience.
The altar of prayer and forgiveness is needed in
every home.
. We need to do more constant praying.
It is the only way to build up a reservoir of
strength for gray days.
“Praying constantly” (I Thess. 5:17).
Conclusion
These four flowers not only make a beautiful bou-
quet, but can be a certain guide to happiness.
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A CHURCH FOR OUR DAY
(CHurca Denication)
“Yet now take courage, O Zerubbabel, says the Lord;
take courage, O Joshua, son of Jehozadak, the high
priest; take courage, all you people of the land, says the
Lord; work, for I am with you, says the Lord of Hosts.”
—Haggai 2:4
Introduction
The first attempt to rebuild the temple in Jeru-
salem in 536 B.c. was led by Zerubbabel, Joshua,
and Ezra. They restored the true worship of
Jehovah, laid the foundations of the building; and
then because of labor troubles and lack of funds
the work ceased.
The second attempt at rebuilding was made six-
teen years later. It was led by a Jewish country-
man whose name was Haggai. A grave crisis had
developed over these years. The people had become
selfish, pessimistic, and sinful. The Jewish layman
saw a great opportunity in the crisis, and so he
called the nation to repentance. In a few brief
months, the stone quarries in Jerusalem were re-
opened and the “cedars of Lebanon” were again
floating down the Jordan River to Jerusalem.
The message of the text was delivered at the cele-
bration of the Jewish Agricultural Sabbath.
The church of our day must be:
. A courageous church
Haggai calls on three groups—the governor, high
priest, and layman—to “take courage.”
A. Haggai’s approach was an appeal to the heroic
- in men’s souls.
By this method he changed defeat, self-pity,
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and pessimism into a winning spirit. God can-
not use discouraged people.
B. Only a courageous church can be effective to-
day.
If the church is weak and cowardly, she will be
pushed to the side lines.
Her people must live, think, pray, act, and
plan courageously.
(Refer to the hymn, “Live Like a Hero.”)
C. The source of Christian courage is the Lord.
Illustration—Joshua hesitates at the banks of the
Jordan River. Three times the Lord says to him,
“Be strong and of good courage” (Josh. 1:6, 9,
18).
With this assurance, he leads the nation into
the Promised Land.
Il. A working church
“Work, for I am with you, says the Lord of Hosts.”
A. Haggai was a man of action.
His slogan was “the house of God lieth waste.”
Through this emphasis he changed the outlook
and hearts of the people.
B. He called his people to action.
For sixteen years they had been building their
own houses and utterly forgetting God’s house.
The church of God has a purpose in the world.
If we fail him, he will find a people through
whom he will establish his kingdom.
C. The church must have a well-defined and chal-
lenging program in order to advance.
Big undertakings, lots of teamwork, and a
winning spirit are essential for success.
IV. A sacrificial church
A. Haggai condemned the people’s selfishness.
“Because of my house that lies in ruins, while
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V.
3
you busy yourselves each with his own house’
(Hag. 1:9c). We have no right to live in fine,
modern homes unless the church is beautiful,
modern, and serviceable. A church that does
not represent sacrifice in its erection and main-
tenance is not worthy of the name.
. By sharing we live for others.
Illustrations: Jesus left only a robe; Paul left
a cloak and some parchments; John Wesley
left a well-worn clergyman’s gown and a re-
ligious movement. Some people leave only a
tombstone.
. The people did respond to Haggai’s request
for gifts.
They gave themselves and their offerings.
Labor was one of their biggest contributions.
A victorious church
A.
Haggai knew the combination of success.
The three links of his chain were courage,
work, and sacrifice.
These led to certain victory. He harnessed his
resources of leadership, funds, and abilities to
one definite end, and that was the building of
the Temple.
. He himself was a craftsman.
He is called a minor prophet. His book of two
chapters has only thirty-eight verses. Haggai
has been called the “man with one idea.” He had
the administrative ability to “find a job for
everyone” and to inspire him to do it.
. The results of his leadership and labors are
obvious.
Four years later the Temple was completed and
dedicated. “And the people of Israel, the priests
and the Levites, and the rest of the returned
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exiles, celebrated the dedication of this house
of God with joy” (Ezra 6:16).
VI. Conelusion
The composition of success is courage, work, and
sacrifice.
SAVE OUR SUNDAY
“And he said unto them, ‘The sabbath was made for
man, not man for the sabbath; so the Son of man is
lord even of the sabbath.”
—Mark 2:27-28
I. Introduction
(Describe the setting of the text.)
. The Jewish Sabbath
A. Commemorates a finished creation — “God
rested.”
The Sabbath in the Old Testament was a day
of rest.
B. Its faithful observance was commanded in the
Decalogue.
“Remember the Sabbath day, to keep it holy”
(Exod. 20:8).
C. It is a type of heavenly rest.
The Christian Sabbath was made for man
The Christian “Sabbath” is not a law but a privilege
and not so much a Sabbath as a “Lord’s Day.”
The resurrection of physical, mental, and spiritual
strength is its outstanding purpose. It commemor-
ates a finished redemption. Jesus arose on “The
first day of the week.”
A. Man needs a physical rest.
We need one day out of seven for our bodies.
110
B.
- We are not made of iron, stone, or steel, but
of “flesh and blood.”
Machinery, animals, and the land, all need a
period of rest.
Comment on the Coca Cola slogan, “The pause
that refreshes.” )
. Man needs mental refreshment.
The mind needs a change of reading and a rest.
Sunday is the time to read the Bible and other
Christian literature.
Do not wrap yourself in a large Sunday paper.
. Man needs social enrichment.
Sunday is an ideal time for the family to be
together and worship together at home. (Slogan,
“The family that worships together sticks to-
gether.”) Families should fellowship together
on the Lord’s Day. They need each other.
. Man needs a spiritual uplift.
The soul needs nourishment that comes through
worship, prayer, and meditation. We need “the
Communion of Saints.” Sunday is an ideal time
to cultivate the things of the Spirit. Robert
Browning wrote, “Look up, not down; to look
down makes one dizzy.”
. How is Sunday being observed?
A.
It is being commercialized by business, sports,
movies, and recreation.
Much manual labor is done on this day; only
some of it essential.
Repair jobs, car washings, gardening, harvesting.
. Sunday has become almost a secular holiday.
Pleasure seekers make long trips to lakes, sum-
mer resorts, parks, games. They go away from
lil
Vi.
the church and miss its privileges and bless-
ings. These trips are financially costly.
D. There is much negative Sunday desecration.
After a Saturday night of dissipation, people will
lie in bed late on Sunday. They do not have the
energy and incentive to clean up and observe
the day.
. What should be done about properly observing
the Christian Sabbath?
A. We should familiarize ourselves with the way
Christ observed the Sabbath.
He attended church regularly “. . . as his custom
was” (Luke 4:16b).
He had the church-going habit. He observed the
remainder of the day in positive helpfulness to
others. He performed miracles of healing on
the Sabbath.
B. Every Christian should observe this day
properly.
Be a full-time Christian and set a noble example
before your family and community.
C. Parents should teach their children how to ob-
serve the Lord’s Day.
Do it by example and by precept. Unless par-
ents faithfully do this, we cannot expect chil-
dren to do it.
D. The church should join with community agen-
cies and groups to help stop unlawful practices
on the Lord’s Day.
Conclusion
It is up to Christian people to save our Sunday.
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